Name: Banana Pudding No Bake Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix; 4 cups cold milk; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip or similar); 6–7 ripe bananas, sliced; 1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers or graham crackers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened (optional); 1 tsp vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is fuss-free, simple to prepare, and always a hit. The layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and soft cookies make each bite rich and comforting. Because it’s no-bake, it saves time and keeps your kitchen cool. It’s also a make-ahead dessert that actually tastes better after chilling, as the flavors meld together.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Instant vanilla pudding mix
Cold milk
Sweetened condensed milk
Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Bananas, sliced
Vanilla wafers or graham crackers
Cream cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Vanilla extract

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
Stir in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
Fold in whipped topping (and softened cream cheese if using) until creamy.
In a serving dish, layer cookies on the bottom, followed by a layer of pudding mixture and a layer of sliced bananas.
Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding and cookies on top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Serve chilled, topped with extra whipped topping or crushed cookies if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 10–12 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Use banana pudding mix instead of vanilla for a stronger banana flavor.
Swap vanilla wafers for graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even Oreo cookies for a twist.
Add a layer of caramel sauce between the pudding and bananas for extra sweetness.
Top with toasted coconut or chopped nuts for added texture.
Make individual servings in mason jars or parfait glasses for parties.

Storage/Reheating

Store banana pudding no bake dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bananas may darken slightly over time, but the flavors remain delicious. To slow browning, you can toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering. This dessert is not ideal for freezing, as the texture of the pudding and bananas will change.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert a day ahead?

Yes, in fact it tastes better when chilled overnight.

What kind of cookies work best?

Vanilla wafers are traditional, but graham crackers, shortbread, or even biscoff cookies work well.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, just make sure it’s stabilized whipped cream so it holds its texture.

How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?

Toss them in a little lemon juice before layering, or assemble closer to serving time.

Can I make this dessert without condensed milk?

Yes, simply skip it or substitute with a little extra whipped topping for sweetness and creaminess.

How long does banana pudding last?

Up to 3 days in the refrigerator, though it’s best eaten within 24–48 hours.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk, dairy-free pudding mix, and coconut whipped topping.

What size dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is standard, but you can also use a trifle bowl for a pretty layered look.

Can I add cream cheese to the filling?

Yes, beating softened cream cheese into the pudding mixture makes it thicker and tangier.

Is this recipe truly no-bake?

Yes, no oven is needed—just assemble, chill, and serve.

Conclusion

Banana pudding no bake dessert is a creamy, dreamy, and effortless classic that’s perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself. With its luscious layers of pudding, bananas, and cookies, it’s a nostalgic favorite that never fails to please. Easy to prepare, customizable, and make-ahead friendly, this dessert is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.