Pioneer Woman Banana Pudding Recipe
Introduction
Pioneer Woman Banana Pudding is a classic Southern dessert that combines creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, crunchy wafers, and light whipped cream. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)
- 2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix together with cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Step 2: In a trifle bowl or large glass dish, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
- Step 3: Spread whipped cream evenly over the top layer of pudding.
- Step 4: Chill the banana pudding in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften slightly.
- Step 5: Serve chilled, garnished with additional wafers or banana slices if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy layers.
- For a richer pudding, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Layer in a deep glass bowl to showcase the beautiful layers.
- Try adding a layer of crushed nuts for added texture.
Storage
Store leftover banana pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The wafers will continue to soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within this period. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?
Yes, banana pudding tastes even better after chilling for several hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften perfectly.
What can I substitute for vanilla wafers?
If you don’t have vanilla wafers, you can use shortbread cookies, graham crackers, or crushed digestive biscuits as alternatives.
PrintPioneer Woman Banana Pudding Recipe
Pioneer Woman Banana Pudding is a classic, creamy dessert featuring layers of ripe bananas, smooth vanilla pudding, crunchy wafers, and fluffy whipped cream. This no-bake treat is perfect for gatherings or a comforting homemade dessert that comes together effortlessly with just a few ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Banana Pudding Layers
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 cups prepared vanilla pudding (from instant mix or homemade)
- 1 package (12 oz) vanilla wafers
- 1 1/2 cups whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Prepare Vanilla Pudding: Prepare the vanilla pudding according to package instructions or your preferred homemade recipe, ensuring it is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Slice Bananas: Peel and slice the ripe bananas into even, approximately 1/4-inch thick pieces to layer evenly throughout the pudding.
- Layer Ingredients: In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, start by placing a single layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers, followed by a generous spread of vanilla pudding. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of vanilla pudding.
- Add Whipped Cream: Gently spread or pipe the whipped cream evenly over the top layer of pudding to create a light, fluffy finish.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the wafers to soften slightly and the flavors to meld, creating the perfect texture and taste.
- Serve: Once chilled, scoop portions into bowls ensuring each serving includes pudding, banana slices, wafers, and whipped cream. Serve cold for the best experience.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy texture.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding before layering.
- Homemade whipped cream can be made by whipping heavy cream with a little powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.
- Vanilla wafers soften as they sit in pudding, so do not prepare too far in advance to avoid overly soggy texture.
Keywords: banana pudding, pioneer woman, vanilla pudding dessert, no bake dessert, layered dessert
