This recipe for banana pudding by Ina Garten creates a decadent dessert with layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and banana pudding that is thick and creamy.

The best part about this pudding is that it does not require any baking and is a hit at parties and potlucks.

Ina Garten Banana Pudding Recipe

Banana pudding is, without a doubt, the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a dessert made with bananas. I’ll tell you why this recipe is fantastic.

• No-bake – This sweet requires minimal effort in terms of preparation and absolutely no time in the kitchen.
• Simple enough that even a kitchen beginner could cook it with ease.
• Beautiful – aesthetic perfection for a gathering or potluck.
• Loved by all – awesome for both adults and children.

Ina Garten Banana Pudding Ingredients

Banana pudding requires only a handful of simple ingredients and can be made and served in a flash.

• Milk – We used whole milk, but any kind of milk will work.
• Vanilla pudding – Make sure to use a no-bake or instant pudding. Even though we used vanilla pudding, you could just as easily use bananas.
• Vanilla extract – The pudding is not complete without some homemade vanilla added to it.
• Sweetened condensed milk – Adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess to the pudding.
• Vanilla wafers – However, any brand of wafers will do; we just happen to prefer Nilla. For possible alterations, see the list below.
• Heavy whipping cream – The pudding is made much more indulgent with the addition of whipped cream.
• Powdered sugar – to the pudding’s surface to sweeten it. Throw it out entirely; it’s not necessary.
• Bananas – The excellent flavor of the pudding comes from fresh banana slices.

How To Make Banana Pudding Ahead?

Banana pudding is best when eaten within two days of preparation, though it can be cooked up to 24 hours in advance. Bananas will turn brown if they aren’t entirely submerged in the pudding if you’re planning on creating the pudding more than two hours in advance. When serving, simply arrange a few banana slices on top.

How To Make Ina Garten Banana Pudding?

• In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk, vanilla extract, and vanilla pudding until the mixture becomes thick. Pour the condensed milk into the bowl and mix thoroughly.
• In a second dish, whisk the heavy cream until it forms firm peaks. About two-thirds of the whipped cream should be folded into the pudding with a spatula.
• Fold the powdered sugar into the remaining one-third of the whipped cream with a spatula. Refrigerate until needed.
• Add a quarter of the vanilla wafers and a quarter of the bananas to the bottom of your trifle basin.
• Spread a quarter of the pudding across the bananas and wafers. Repeat with the remaining layers until there are a total of four.
• Decorate the pudding as desired with the reserved whipped cream. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

How To Serve Banana Pudding?

It’s best to use a large spoon to scoop out individual servings. The pudding can be served in a regular dish instead of a trifle bowl. You can also serve the vanilla pudding in these creative ways:

• In jars or mini cups – If you want a more refined appearance, just use a bag when you pipe.
• Casserole – Throw everything into a baking dish, whether it’s a round one, a square one, or a 3 qt. rectangle.

What To Serve With Banana Pudding?

• Tamale Pie
• Crock Pot Cube Steak
• Tuna Salad Nicoise
• Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole
• Mexican Street Corn Salad
• Chicken And Noodles Casserole

Recipe Tips

• If vanilla pudding is too boring, try butterscotch, banana, or chocolate.
• Toss in some berries or use them as a stand-in for the bananas.
• Increase the amount of whipped topping and stack it on top of the banana pudding to make it look fancier.
• Spread caramel sauce among the layers.
• Put some peanut butter in between the layers.

FAQ Section

Can I Use Vanilla Wafers Instead?

Graham crackers, butter biscuits, or even animal crackers are all options.

How Do You Keep Bananas From Becoming Brown?

Because bananas brown fast when exposed to air, keep them completely covered in pudding. Add the bananas on top shortly before serving, or leave them off entirely.

Can I Substitute Cool Whip For Whipping Cream?

Cool whip is a wonderful substitute for whipped cream, although it will taste somewhat sweeter.

Where Did Banana Pudding Come From?

Banana Pudding is a classic Southern dish in the United States. It was originally made with homemade custard, but the no-cook variant has gained popularity among modern home cooks.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Minestrone
• Ina Garten Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

Ina Garten Banana Pudding Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving

• Calories 288
• Total Fat 10g
• Saturated Fat 7.1g
• Cholesterol 6.5mg
• Sodium 397mg
• Potassium 283mg
• Total Carbohydrate 47g
• Dietary Fiber 1.2g
• Sugars 34g
• Protein 4g
• Vitamin A 4%
• Vitamin C 7%
• Calcium 11%
• Iron 1%

Nutrition Facts Source: Source