Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Banana pudding cups are the ultimate no-bake dessert—creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. With layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and silky pudding topped with whipped cream, these cups strike the perfect balance between nostalgic and indulgent. They require no oven time, making them ideal for summer gatherings, quick family desserts, or party treats. The single-serving portions are both practical and elegant, allowing for easy serving without the fuss of slicing. Every spoonful delivers a delightful mix of textures: crunchy cookies softened by pudding, smooth cream, and the freshness of ripe bananas. This recipe comes together in minutes and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving something sweet at the end of the day, banana pudding cups are a timeless dessert that never fails to impress.
Banana Pudding Cups – Easy No-Bake Dessert with Creamy Layers
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins (including chill time)
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Pudding Cups are a quick and easy no-bake dessert layered with creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. Perfect for parties or a simple treat at home.
Ingredients
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- Optional: whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
- Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined to create a creamy pudding mixture.
- In serving cups, start by adding a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers.
- Spoon a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
- Repeat layers until the cups are filled, finishing with pudding on top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Top with whipped cream and a vanilla wafer, if desired.
Notes
- Best served within 24 hours to prevent bananas from browning.
- You can use banana-flavored pudding mix for extra banana flavor.
- Individual cups make serving easy for parties or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Vanilla wafers provide the crunchy base and soften beautifully as they soak up the creamy pudding layers.
Bananas are the star ingredient, adding natural sweetness and a fresh fruity flavor.
Instant vanilla pudding mix creates a silky-smooth filling with minimal effort.
Milk combines with the pudding mix to form the creamy custard base.
Whipped cream adds lightness and richness, balancing the pudding.
Cream cheese (optional) gives the filling extra tang and structure.
Powdered sugar sweetens the whipped cream topping.
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor with warm undertones.
Directions
Start by preparing the pudding. Whisk the instant pudding mix with cold milk until smooth and thickened. If using cream cheese, beat it until smooth before folding into the pudding for extra creaminess.
In serving cups, begin layering: add a few vanilla wafers to the bottom, followed by banana slices, then a layer of pudding. Repeat the process until the cups are filled, finishing with pudding on top.
Spread or pipe whipped cream over the pudding layers. Garnish with crushed wafers or a banana slice for presentation.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the wafers to soften slightly and the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 individual pudding cups. Preparation takes 15 minutes, and chilling requires at least 2 hours. Total time is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Banana pudding cups can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. However, the bananas may darken over time, so for best presentation, prepare close to serving time. Do not freeze, as the texture of bananas and pudding changes after thawing.
Variations and Customizations
Chocolate Banana Pudding
Use chocolate pudding mix instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
Strawberry Banana Cups
Add sliced strawberries between the layers for a fruity twist.
Nutty Crunch
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
Oreo Banana Pudding
Replace vanilla wafers with crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream version.
Caramel Drizzle
Add a layer of caramel sauce between the bananas and pudding.
Coconut Banana Pudding
Mix shredded coconut into the whipped cream topping.
Mini Dessert Jars
Assemble in mason jars for portable party-ready desserts.
Healthier Version
Use Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese and light whipped topping.
Banoffee Style
Add dulce de leche for a banana-toffee flavor combination.
Peanut Butter Twist
Layer in peanut butter or peanut butter chips for a nutty surprise.
FAQs
Can I make banana pudding cups a day ahead?
Yes, but add bananas closer to serving time to prevent browning.
Do I need to bake anything for this recipe?
No, it’s a no-bake dessert.
Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes, but instant pudding saves time and works just as well.
How do I keep bananas from turning brown?
Lightly coat slices with lemon juice before layering.
Can I use different cookies?
Yes, shortbread or graham crackers also work well.
How long do they last in the fridge?
Up to 2 days, though best eaten fresh.
Conclusion
Banana pudding cups are a creamy, nostalgic dessert that’s quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. With layers of cookies, bananas, and pudding topped with whipped cream, they’re perfect for gatherings, make-ahead desserts, or sweet cravings. Simple yet elegant, this no-bake treat is one you’ll come back to again and again.
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