Sweet, creamy, and so easy to layer up.
Let’s Talk Banana Pudding Trifle 🍌
This recipe is one of those desserts that feels like a hug. It’s creamy, dreamy, and has that perfect combo of fresh banana slices, pudding, whipped cream, and those soft Nilla wafers that get just the right kind of soggy (you know what I mean).
I’ve made this so many times for potlucks, BBQs, and just lazy Sunday cravings—it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s no-bake and super easy to throw together!
🍌 What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 box Nilla wafers
- 4 ripe bananas (sliced)
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
💛 Why I Love This Recipe
This trifle is more than just dessert—it brings people together. It’s always the first thing gone at any party.
- No oven, no stress—totally no-bake!
- Can make ahead and serve cold
- Looks fancy, tastes nostalgic
- Layers = built-in wow factor
- Stores great in the fridge
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Instant pudding thickens with milk in minutes thanks to modified starches. Whipped cream adds air and lightness, while Nilla wafers slowly soften from moisture in the pudding, giving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Bananas bring natural sweetness and pair beautifully with the vanilla and cream.
🕒 Servings & Time
Serves: 10–12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2–4 hours (for best texture)
Cook Time: None!
🔬 Exact Macros (Per Serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 325
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 26g
🍽 Tools You’ll Need
- Trifle dish or glass bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
✨ Pro Tips
- Slice bananas right before layering to keep them from browning.
- Chill the bowl before whipping cream—it helps it whip faster!
- Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest results.
- Layer with care—spread pudding gently so you don’t mash the bananas.
- Crush a few Nilla wafers for the topping for a nice crunch!
🥄 Substitutions & Variations
- Use banana pudding mix instead of vanilla for extra banana flavor.
- Sub in graham crackers or shortbread cookies.
- Swap Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream.
- Add a layer of Nutella or caramel sauce between layers for a fun twist.
⏱ Make Ahead Tips
You can make this up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover tightly and keep it in the fridge. Wait to garnish the top until just before serving.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pudding Mixture
Instructions:
In a large bowl, whisk the cold milk and vanilla pudding mix for 2 minutes until thickened. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
Instructions:
In another bowl, beat heavy cream and vanilla extract with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
Step 3: Fold Whipped Cream into Pudding
Instructions:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully combined and creamy.
Step 4: Start Layering
Instructions:
In a trifle bowl, add a layer of Nilla wafers, then banana slices, then pudding mixture. Repeat until the bowl is full, ending with pudding and a layer of whipped topping.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Instructions:
Top with extra whipped topping and crushed Nilla wafers. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge. Good for up to 3 days. The bananas may brown slightly but it’ll still taste great. Don’t freeze—pudding and bananas don’t thaw well.
🍴 What to Serve With It
- Grilled meats (hello, BBQ dessert!)
- Coffee or iced lattes
- Lemonade or sweet tea
- Simple salad if you’re having this as a weekend lunch treat
🍱 Meal Plan Ideas
- Day Before: Make the whole trifle, cover, and chill
- Day Of: Pull it out right before serving—no extra work needed!
- Next Day Leftovers: Spoon into small bowls and top with extra whipped cream for a mini treat
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Using warm milk – it needs to be cold for the pudding to set!
- Overmixing whipped cream – once it’s stiff, stop mixing.
- Slicing bananas too early – they’ll brown fast.
- Not chilling long enough – give it a couple of hours to set up properly.
❓ FAQ
Can I make this the night before?
Yes! Just cover it well and keep it in the fridge. It’s even better the next day.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Totally. Cool Whip works great and saves time.
Do I have to use a trifle bowl?
Nope! A big glass bowl or even mason jars for minis will work too.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Try using almond milk and coconut whipped topping. Just make sure your pudding mix is compatible.
🥰 Final Thoughts
This banana pudding trifle is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s easy, beautiful, and ridiculously delicious. Give it a go—and don’t forget to leave a comment below to tell me how yours turned out or if you have any questions. Happy layering! 🍌💛