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Easy Banana Pudding Recipe That Feels Like a Hug
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Easy Banana Pudding Recipe That Feels Like a Hug

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time9 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (optional, if you like a little extra sweet)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup cold heavy cream or whipped topping
  • 2 cup vanilla wafer cookies (or shortbread, if you’re feeling fancy)
  • Optional garnish banana slices, cookies crumbs, or a drizzle of caramel

Instructions

  • Whisk together the milk, pudding mix, powdered sugar (if using), and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. It should look like a glossy, sleepy lava lamp—no lumps allowed.
  • Let the pudding set in the fridge for about 5 minutes while you prep the fruit. This gives you a moment to feel like a magician without actually pulling a rabbit out of a hat.
  • Slice the bananas into thin rounds. If you’re worried about browning, a quick toss with a squeeze of lemon juice helps—but no drama if you skip it.
  • Beat the cream until it holds soft peaks. Fold it gently into the pudding for a light, creamy texture. If you’re using whipped topping, fold it in rather than beating it—let the laziness win.
  • Layer in a serving dish: cookies on the bottom, banana slices on top, then a generous swirl of pudding. Repeat until you run out of everything, finishing with a pudding layer.
  • Chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) so the flavors mingle like old friends at a reunion. Serve cold and enjoy the compliments that follow.