Southern Banana Pudding

Classic Southern Banana Pudding recipe with layers of ripe bananas, vanilla pudding, and vanilla wafers, topped with whipped cream or meringue. A creamy, comforting dessert perfect for gatherings.

Southern Banana Pudding

Southern Banana Pudding is a classic, creamy dessert made with layers of ripe bananas, sweet vanilla custard, and vanilla wafers, topped with fluffy meringue or whipped cream. It’s a comforting, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a sweet Southern favorite.

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Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 4–5 ripe bananas

• 1 box (5.1 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix

• 2 cups cold milk

• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk (optional for extra richness)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 box (11 ounces) vanilla wafers

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for whipped topping)

• 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)

• Pinch of salt

Optional:

• Meringue topping (3 egg whites + ¼ cup sugar) instead of whipped cream

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Step 1: Prepare the Pudding

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth.

2. Add sweetened condensed milk for extra richness if desired.

3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Let the pudding set in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.

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Step 2: Slice the Bananas

1. Peel the bananas and slice them into thin rounds.

2. Set aside for layering.

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Step 3: Layer the Dessert

1. In a large serving dish or individual cups, start with a layer of vanilla wafers.

2. Add a layer of banana slices over the wafers.

3. Pour a layer of vanilla pudding over the bananas.

4. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding on top.

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Step 4: Prepare the Topping

Option 1: Whipped Cream

1. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with sugar and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.

2. Spread the whipped cream over the top layer of pudding.

Option 2: Meringue

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Beat 3 egg whites with ¼ cup sugar until stiff peaks form.

3. Spread the meringue over the pudding layers.

4. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until the meringue is lightly golden.

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Step 5: Chill

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften slightly.

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Step 6: Serve

1. Spoon into individual bowls or serve straight from the dish.

2. Garnish with additional vanilla wafers or banana slices if desired.

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Tips for Best Results

• Use ripe but firm bananas so they hold up in the pudding.

• Layer evenly to ensure every serving has bananas, wafers, and pudding.

• Chill the pudding for several hours; it tastes better after sitting overnight.

• For extra flavor, sprinkle a small amount of cinnamon or nutmeg on top.