3-Ingredient Banana Pudding

This easy 3-ingredient banana pudding is a quick and creamy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Simply combine bananas, pudding mix, and cookies for a deliciously simple dessert!

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, this banana pudding is the answer. I’ve always been a fan of simple recipes that don’t require hours of preparation, and this one fits the bill perfectly. With just a few ingredients, you can create a creamy, indulgent treat in no time. It’s one of those recipes that everyone loves, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

You can make this dessert for a family dinner, a potluck, or just as a treat when you’re craving something sweet. It doesn’t take much effort at all, but the flavor is rich and satisfying. Plus, the combination of bananas and pudding is a classic that never goes out of style. The whipped topping adds the perfect finishing touch when serving for a smooth and creamy texture. This has become a go-to dessert along with my strawberry poke cake when I’m hosting a gathering.

This recipe has become a staple in my house because it’s so easy to whip up, and my boyfriend absolutely loves it. I always keep the ingredients on hand for those moments when I need a quick dessert. Just like my macaroni fruit salad, it’s perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you want something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. No matter the occasion, this 3-ingredient banana pudding is sure to impress with its simple yet delicious flavors.

Items Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make 3-ingredient banana pudding:

• Bananas: Fresh bananas add a natural sweetness and creamy texture that perfectly complement the pudding and cookies.
• Vanilla Wafer Cookies: These cookies provide a crunchy contrast to the smooth pudding and soft bananas, adding both texture and flavor.
• Vanilla Pudding: The rich, creamy vanilla pudding ties all the ingredients together, creating a luscious, indulgent base for the dessert.
• Cool Whip: Thawed Cool Whip adds a light and airy finish, enhancing the pudding’s creaminess while making it easier to mix and serve.

Ways To Customize

Here are some simple and fun ways to customize your 3-ingredient banana pudding and to make it uniquely yours:

• Add a Layer of Chocolate: For a chocolate twist, sprinkle mini chocolate chips or layer in some chocolate pudding between the bananas and vanilla pudding.
• Incorporate Other Fruits: You can mix in other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches for a colorful, fruity variation that adds even more flavor.
• Use Different Cookies: Swap the vanilla wafer cookies for graham crackers, shortbread, or even chocolate wafer cookies for a new take on texture and taste.
• Make it Nutty: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy, nutty flavor that complements the creamy dessert.
• Try a Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free pudding mix, coconut whipped cream, and dairy-free cookies for a vegan-friendly version that everyone can enjoy.
• Top with Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the banana and vanilla flavors.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a warm, comforting spice that elevates the pudding’s flavor profile.

How To Make It

To start, grab your 9×13-inch baking pan or trifle dish along with the ingredients. Then, follow these easy directions.

Storage

To store 3-ingredient banana pudding, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, though the bananas may start to brown slightly over time.

Helpful Hints

Here are some tips to ensure your 3-ingredient banana pudding turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Ripe Bananas: Choose ripe but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture. Overripe bananas can become too mushy and make the pudding watery.
• Layer Carefully: Make sure to layer the bananas, cookies, and pudding evenly to ensure every bite has a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
• Don’t Skip the Cool Whip: For the best creamy texture, be sure to use thawed Cool Whip instead of fresh whipped cream when serving. It holds up better and adds the right amount of fluffiness to the pudding.
• Let it Chill: Allow the pudding to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together and the cookies soften.
• Garnish for Extra Appeal: Reserve a few vanilla wafer cookies to crush and sprinkle on top for a decorative and crunchy finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

This simple banana pudding is perfect for serving at family gatherings or casual get-togethers. It can be served along with other treats like strawberry cupcakes and chocolate peppermint fudge. To make it extra special, serve it in individual cups or small mason jars for a charming presentation that guests will love. Garnish each serving with a few extra banana slices and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafer cookies to enhance both the visual appeal and texture of the dessert.

If you’re looking to add a bit of elegance to your dessert table, consider pairing the banana pudding with a light and refreshing fruit salad. The balance of the creamy, sweet pudding and fresh, juicy fruits will complement each other perfectly. For a more festive touch, top the pudding with whipped topping and colorful sprinkles for a fun, celebratory vibe, making it ideal for birthdays or holiday parties.

You can also serve the banana pudding alongside a warm beverage, such as a cup of coffee or hot white chocolate mocha, especially during colder months. The richness of the pudding pairs wonderfully with a warm drink, adding an extra layer of comfort. For a more indulgent experience, drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce on top of the pudding before serving to create a sweet contrast and take the dessert to the next level.

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