Description

A simple, no-cook banana pudding trifle that layers ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a creamy custard-like filling made from whipped cream, sweetened condensed milk, and instant pudding mix. It is make-ahead friendly and requires minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups heavy cream (cold)
1 can (14oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
2 boxes (3.4oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4–5 large ripe bananas
1 package (14.7oz) vanilla wafers
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup heavy cream (for topping, optional)
1 teaspoon sugar (for topping, optional)
½ cup crushed vanilla wafers (for topping, optional)
¼ cup chocolate shavings (for topping, optional)

Instructions

Peel and slice bananas into half-inch rounds. Toss with lemon juice and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes).
In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until uniform. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a trifle dish or serving bowls, create layers: start with vanilla wafers, then sliced bananas, then the pudding mixture. Repeat for 3-4 layers, ending with pudding.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften.
Before serving, top with additional whipped cream, crushed vanilla wafers, and/or chocolate shavings if desired.
Serve chilled.

Notes

Use ripe bananas with yellow skin and brown spots for best sweetness and texture. Do not overbeat the cream into stiff peaks to maintain a light texture. The trifle tastes best when made ahead and chilled overnight. Do not freeze as the texture will suffer.

Prep Time: 23 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice or scoop
Calories: 380
Sugar: 30
Sodium: 250
Fat: 20
Saturated Fat: 12
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 2
Protein: 5

Keywords: banana pudding, trifle, no bake dessert, easy dessert, southern dessert, vanilla wafers, make ahead dessert