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Easy Banana Pudding Cups Recipe

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4.8 from 65 reviews

This Easy Banana Pudding Cups recipe is a quick and delightful dessert combining creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafers. Perfect for a no-bake treat, these pudding cups come together in just 15 minutes and are chilled to achieve a luscious, soft texture with layered flavors. Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or a simple sweet craving, topped with optional whipped cream and garnishes for extra indulgence.

Ingredients

Pudding Mixture

  • 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (4-serving size)
  • 2 cups cold milk (2% or whole milk works best)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks

Additional Ingredients

  • 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 30–40 vanilla wafers (or graham crackers, crushed)

Optional Toppings

  • Whipped cream
  • Crushed cookies
  • Caramel
  • Chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pudding: In a bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  2. Fold in vanilla and whipped cream: Gently fold the vanilla extract and whipped cream (whipped to stiff peaks) into the pudding mixture until smooth and airy in texture.
  3. Layer the ingredients: In small jars or clear cups, create layers by placing vanilla wafers, banana slices, and the pudding mixture. Repeat these layers to fill the container as desired.
  4. Chill the pudding cups: Refrigerate the layered cups for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and soften the cookies.
  5. Add toppings and serve: Before serving, garnish with additional whipped cream, crushed cookies, caramel, or chocolate shavings according to your preference.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy texture in the pudding layers.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whipped topping or use low-fat milk for pudding preparation.
  • Allowing the pudding cups to chill longer than 1 hour results in softer, more integrated flavors.
  • Vanilla wafers can be swapped with graham crackers for a different texture and flavor dimension.
  • Make sure the whipping cream is whipped to stiff peaks for the best airy texture.