Banana Pudding Cup – Creamy No-Bake Individual Dessert

Introduction

Banana Pudding Cups are a classic, comforting dessert transformed into perfectly portioned individual servings. Inspired by traditional Southern banana pudding, these cups deliver layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh ripe bananas, and soft vanilla wafers—all without turning on the oven. They’re simple, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying.

What makes banana pudding cups so popular is their convenience. They’re easy to assemble, require minimal ingredients, and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, holidays, or weeknight desserts. Served in clear cups or jars, they also look beautiful, showing off each delicious layer.

This dessert strikes the perfect balance between creamy and light, sweet but not overpowering. The bananas add natural sweetness, the wafers soften into a cake-like texture, and the pudding brings everything together into one smooth, comforting bite. Whether you grew up eating banana pudding or you’re discovering it for the first time, these cups are guaranteed to become a favorite.

Ingredients

2 cups cold milk

1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3–4 ripe bananas, sliced

2 cups vanilla wafers (whole or crushed)

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix for about 2 minutes, until thickened. Set aside to firm up slightly while preparing the other components.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream

In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This adds lightness and richness to the pudding cups.

Step 3: Combine Pudding and Cream

Gently fold half or all of the whipped cream into the prepared pudding, depending on how light you want the texture. Folding creates a fluffy, mousse-like consistency without deflating the cream.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

In clear dessert cups or jars, start with a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom. Add a layer of banana slices, followed by a generous spoonful of pudding mixture. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with pudding on top.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover the cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the wafers to soften and the flavors to blend perfectly.

Variation

Chocolate Banana Pudding Cups: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla.

Banana Cheesecake Cups: Fold softened cream cheese into the pudding mixture.

Peanut Butter Banana Cups: Add a swirl of peanut butter between layers.

Strawberry Banana Cups: Add sliced strawberries for a fruity twist.

Sugar-Free Version: Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping.

Cooking Note

Bananas naturally brown over time. For best results, assemble the cups close to serving time or lightly toss banana slices in lemon juice to slow oxidation. Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve banana pudding cups chilled, topped with crushed wafers, whipped cream, or a slice of fresh banana. They’re perfect as a grab-and-go dessert for parties, BBQs, birthdays, or holiday tables. Pair with coffee, iced tea, or milk for a classic treat.

Tips

Use very cold milk for quick pudding set.

Don’t overmix when folding whipped cream.

Layer neatly for a beautiful presentation.

Use glass cups or mason jars for visual appeal.

Store covered to prevent pudding from absorbing fridge odors.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

0 minutes

Total Time

2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)

Nutritional Information (Approximate per cup)

Calories: 280

Protein: 4 g

Sodium: 210 mg

FAQs

Can I make banana pudding cups ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored refrigerated.

How do I keep bananas from turning brown?
Lightly coat banana slices with lemon juice or assemble close to serving time.

Can I use homemade pudding instead?
Absolutely. Homemade vanilla pudding works beautifully in this recipe.

What cookies can I use instead of vanilla wafers?
Shortbread cookies, graham crackers, or butter cookies are great substitutes.

Can these be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of pudding and bananas changes when thawed.

Conclusion

Banana Pudding Cups are a timeless dessert made easy, modern, and perfectly portioned. With creamy layers, fresh bananas, and soft vanilla wafers, they deliver comfort and nostalgia in every bite. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself, this no-bake dessert is simple, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your dessert rotation. 🍌🍮

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