Is banana pudding the same as banana cream pudding?

No. Banana pudding typically includes layers of vanilla wafers, pudding, and sliced bananas, while banana cream pudding often refers to a pie-style dessert with a crust and a more mousse-like texture.

What is a substitute for banana pudding wafers?

Great alternatives include graham crackers, shortbread cookies, Biscoff cookies, ladyfingers, or gluten-free vanilla cookies.

How long does it take for Nilla wafers to soften in pudding?

Nilla wafers typically soften within 2 to 4 hours in the refrigerator. For best texture, let it chill for 6 hours or overnight.

How long is banana wafer pudding good for?

It lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator. After that, the bananas may brown and the texture breaks down.

What thickens banana pudding?

Traditional banana pudding is thickened with a custard made from egg yolks and flour or cornstarch. Boxed pudding mixes use starches that set when chilled.

What keeps bananas from turning brown in banana pudding?

Lemon or pineapple juice, slicing bananas fresh, keeping pudding cold, and sealing with plastic wrap directly on the surface all help slow browning.

Banana Wafer Pudding – The Best Classic Recipe You Need Now

Name: Classic Banana Wafer Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-484690H50M21S
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers; 5–6 ripe bananas, sliced; 3 cups whole milk; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs, separated; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; (Optional) 1 teaspoon lemon juice for bananas; (Optional) Whipped cream or meringue topping

Description

This creamy, nostalgic banana wafer pudding is the ultimate Southern comfort dessert. Layers of ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and homemade vanilla custard come together in a chilled, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers

5–6 ripe bananas, sliced

3 cups whole milk

¾ cup granulated sugar

⅓ cup all-purpose flour

3 large eggs, separated

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

(Optional) 1 teaspoon lemon juice for bananas

(Optional) Whipped cream or meringue topping

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
Lightly beat egg yolks in a separate bowl. Temper with a small amount of the warm milk mixture. Then stir into the saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened—about 10–12 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
Optional: Toss banana slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
In a glass dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and custard. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with custard.
Optional: Prepare meringue with reserved egg whites and sugar. Spread on top and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until golden brown.
Chill pudding in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.

Notes

For a quicker version, substitute homemade custard with boxed vanilla or banana instant pudding.
To make it dairy-free, use almond or oat milk and a non-dairy whipped topping.
For added flavor, drizzle with caramel or fold in peanut butter between layers.
Individual servings in mason jars make great party treats.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Chilled, Layered
Cuisine: Southern American

Keywords: banana wafer pudding, banana pudding recipe, Southern banana pudding, layered banana dessert, easy banana pudding, homemade banana custard, pudding with wafers, banana dessert