American Dessert

Paula Deen's Banana Pudding Recipe

Creamy vanilla pudding layered with tender bananas and crisp Nilla wafers brings old fashioned comfort to the table.

This banana pudding is pure Southern comfort, with silky vanilla pudding, pillowy ripe bananas, and a vanilla kiss from whipped cream all mingling in one easy dessert.

I love making it for family gatherings or quiet weeknight treats because it is simple to assemble and always disappears fast.

One spoonful and you will feel like you are right back at the dinner table with Nana, and that is my favorite part of this recipe.

Recipe at a Glance

⏱Prep Time20 mins

🔥Cook Time10 mins, plus chilling

🕐Total Time4 hours

🍰Servings12 servings

🇺🇸CuisineSouthern American

🔢Calories~320 per serving

Ingredients

Vanilla Pudding

1 cup granulated sugar

3 tablespoons all purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 cups whole milk

3 large egg yolks

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Assembly

12 ounces Nilla wafers (about 24 to 30 wafers)

6 large ripe bananas, sliced

2 cups heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Extra Nilla wafers and banana slices for garnish

Substitutions & Variations

★Use gluten free all purpose flour if you need a gluten free version.

★Swap in lactose free milk and dairy free butter for a lighter option.

★Replace heavy cream with whipped topping for a quicker fix.

★Use a mix of yellow and lady finger bananas for extra variety in texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Whisk dry ingredients for pudding

In a medium saucepan whisk together sugar, flour, and salt until smooth.

2

Add milk and cook

Gradually whisk in the milk, then set the pan over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 3 to 5 minutes.

3

Temper the egg yolks

While the milk cooks, whisk the egg yolks in a bowl. Slowly whisk a cup of the hot mixture into the yolks, then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.

4

Finish the pudding base

Whisk in the butter and vanilla, then continue to cook for 2 minutes until glossy. Transfer to a heatproof bowl, press plastic wrap directly on the surface, and chill for at least 1 hour.

5

Whip the cream

In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

6

Arrange the first layer

In a large serving bowl or a 9 by 13 inch dish, spread a thin layer of vanilla pudding.

7

Add wafers and bananas

Place a layer of Nilla wafers over the pudding, then add a layer of banana slices.

8

Repeat and finish

Repeat layers with pudding, whipped cream, wafers, and bananas until ingredients are used, ending with a layer of whipped cream.

9

Chill to set

Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, to let flavors meld.

10

Garnish and serve

Top with extra Nilla wafers and banana slices just before serving for that classic look.

Pro Baker Tips

✓For extra creamy pudding, use whole milk and do not skip the step of pressing plastic wrap on the surface to prevent a skin.

✓Slice bananas right before assembly to keep them firm and bright.

✓Keep a can of whipped cream on hand for quick weeknight versions.

✓Make the pudding a day ahead and fold in the whipped cream and bananas when ready to serve.

Storage & Serving Notes

◆Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

◆Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month, though the texture of bananas may change.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this iconic dessert in small glasses or bowls to highlight the beautiful layers.

›Classic in small dessert glasses

›With a drizzle of caramel sauce

›Alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with instant vanilla pudding?

Yes, you can swap in a boxed instant vanilla pudding mix for the cooked pudding and follow the package instructions for the milk.

Why does my pudding have lumps?

Whisk constantly over medium heat and avoid stopping mid whisk to keep the texture smooth.

How far ahead can I assemble?

Assemble through chilling and add whipped cream and fresh banana slices just before serving to keep them bright.

Can I use lady fingers instead of Nilla wafers?

Yes, lady fingers work wonderfully and give a lovely sponge like texture.

🍽️

Go Make It!

This Paula Deen inspired banana pudding is pure comfort in every bite, so go ahead and whip up a batch to share with the people you love.