Classic Paula Deen Banana Pudding Recipe with Vanilla Wafers

Southern comfort blooms in this tantalizing banana pudding that whispers sweet memories of home.

Generations have cherished this delectable dessert, where velvety pudding embraces delicate vanilla wafers and sun-kissed banana slices.

Layers of creamy goodness meld into a heavenly texture that tingles taste buds and warms hearts.

Soft wafers cradle luscious pudding, creating a sensory dance of contrasts that feels like a culinary embrace.

Each spoonful carries echoes of family gatherings and lazy summer afternoons, transforming simple ingredients into an extraordinary treat.

Decadent and nostalgic, this dessert promises a journey through flavor and emotion that will leave you craving more.

Get ready to indulge in a slice of southern comfort that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Calories: 330 kcal

Servings: 11

Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers

• Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: Look for a high-quality mix with rich vanilla flavor.
• Cold Milk: Choose fresh, whole milk for a creamier texture.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Select a smooth, rich brand for maximum sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract for deep, authentic flavor.

• Whipped Topping: Pick a fully thawed, light and fluffy container.

• Vanilla Wafers: Select crisp, golden wafers with a buttery crunch.
• Ripe Bananas: Choose yellow bananas with minimal brown spots for perfect sweetness.
• Extra Wafers: Pick unblemished wafers for a pristine garnish topping.

Equipment Needed for Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers

• Large mixing bowl: Spacious vessel for blending ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Essential tool for creating lump-free pudding mixture.
• Measuring cups: Precise measurements for milk and other liquid ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: Perfect for adding vanilla extract accurately.
• Spatula: Helps fold whipped topping gently into the mixture.
• Clear glass serving bowl: Showcases beautiful layered dessert.
• Knife: Helps slice bananas into even layers.
• Refrigerator: Chills and sets the dessert to perfection.
• Optional: Serving spoon for easy portioning.

How to Make Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding (Vanilla Wafers Version)

Whip Up a Dreamy Banana Pudding

• Prep Your Pudding Playground

Grab your favorite mixing bowl and get ready to create magic. You’ll need a few simple ingredients that will transform into a creamy, heavenly dessert that’ll make everyone swoon.

• Mix the Pudding Magic

Blend the pudding mix with cold milk, whisking with enthusiasm until the mixture turns gloriously thick and smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, stirring until it becomes silky and luxurious.

• Create a Flavor Explosion

Splash in some vanilla extract and gently fold the whipped topping into the mixture. Watch as it becomes light, airy, and utterly irresistible.

• Build Your Delectable Masterpiece

In a beautiful serving dish, start layering your pudding adventure. Arrange vanilla wafers as your foundation, top with fresh banana slices, then cover with your creamy pudding mixture. Repeat these layers, letting each tier tell a delicious story.

• Chill and Thrill

Tuck your creation into the refrigerator for at least an hour. This resting time allows all the flavors to dance together and the pudding to set perfectly. Just before serving, sprinkle some crushed wafers on top for an extra crunch that’ll make taste buds do a happy dance.

Expert Tips & Recipe Variations for Banana Pudding (Paula Deen)

Explore creative twists on this classic banana pudding that’ll make your taste buds dance!

Swap regular bananas for caramelized plantains to add a rich, deep flavor that transforms the entire dessert experience.

Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings between layers or mix cocoa powder into the pudding base for an indulgent chocolate-banana fusion.

Scatter toasted pecans or almonds between layers to introduce a delightful textural contrast and nutty undertone.

Dust the top with a hint of cinnamon or add a splash of rum extract for a sophisticated flavor profile that elevates the traditional recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding with Wafers

• Serve Creatively: Arrange the pudding in individual mason jars for a charming, portable dessert perfect for picnics or potlucks.
• Garnish with Flair: Sprinkle crushed wafers, add a few banana slices, or drizzle caramel sauce on top to elevate the visual appeal and taste experience.
• Pair with Beverages: Complement this sweet treat with a hot cup of coffee, iced tea, or a cold glass of milk to balance the dessert's rich, creamy texture.
• Customize for Gatherings: Transform the recipe into a trifle by using a clear glass bowl, showcasing the beautiful layers and making it a stunning centerpiece for dinner parties or family gatherings.

Meal Planning and Storage Tips for Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding

• Preserve the Deliciousness: Smart Storage Solutions
• Refrigerate the banana pudding immediately after preparing, keeping it covered tightly with plastic wrap or a sealed container to maintain its fresh flavor and creamy texture.
• Maximize Freshness: Enjoy Within Days
• Store the dessert in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. After this time, the bananas may start to brown and the wafers could lose their delightful crunch.
• Quick Tip: Prevent Banana Browning
• Toss banana slices in a bit of lemon juice before layering to slow down oxidation and keep them looking fresh and appetizing longer.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prep with Precision
• Assemble the pudding up to 24 hours in advance for stress-free entertaining. Wait to add the final wafer topping until just before serving to keep everything crisp and delightful.

Heavenly Paula Deen Banana Pudding Recipe With Vanilla Wafers

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4.6 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 11 1x

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Description

Southern comfort shines in this Paula Deen banana pudding, layering creamy custard between vanilla wafers and ripe bananas. Rich flavors meld together, creating a classic dessert that welcomes friends around the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 14 bananas (small, sliced)
• 1 package (16 oz / 453 g) vanilla wafers
• 2 cups (480 ml) cold milk
• 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 container (12 oz / 340 g) frozen whipped topping (thawed)
• 1 package (5 oz / 142 g) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Gather all ingredients and equipment, ensuring a clean, organized workspace for seamless dessert assembly.
2. Pudding Base: Whisk cold milk and pudding mix in a large bowl until achieving a smooth, lump-free consistency, then blend in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until perfectly integrated.
3. Creamy Incorporation: Gently fold whipped topping into the pudding mixture, maintaining its light and airy texture while creating a luxurious, velvety base.
4. Layering Foundation: In a clear glass dish, create alternating layers beginning with a precise arrangement of vanilla wafers completely covering the bottom, followed by a uniform layer of thinly sliced bananas.
5. Pudding Construction: Carefully pour the prepared pudding mixture over the banana layer, ensuring even distribution and complete coverage of the initial ingredients.
6. Repeat Layering: Continue building layers of wafers, bananas, and pudding mixture, finishing with a generous pudding topping that showcases the dessert’s elegant composition.
7. Chilling and Setting: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least one hour, allowing flavors to meld and the pudding to set into a perfect, creamy consistency.
8. Final Touch: Before serving, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top to add a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the classic banana pudding.

Notes

• Precise Ingredient Preparation: Measure ingredients carefully to maintain the perfect balance of flavors and texture in this classic banana pudding.
• Whisk with Vigor: Beat the pudding mix thoroughly for 2 minutes to eliminate lumps and create a smooth, creamy base that defines the dessert’s quality.
• Layer Strategically: Arrange wafers and bananas in even, complete layers to ensure each bite contains a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
• Chill for Maximum Flavor: Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow ingredients to meld, softening wafers and intensifying the dessert’s rich, creamy profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 11
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 29 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 53 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg