Banana Pudding Trifle

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Banana Pudding Trifle

Description

This Banana Pudding Trifle is a Southern classic turned into a show-stopping dessert! Layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, fluffy whipped topping, and buttery vanilla wafers come together to create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Served in a glass trifle bowl, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious — perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you crave a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

For the pudding layer:

  • 1 (5.1 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix

  • 3 cups cold milk

  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the whipped cream layer:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For layering:

  • 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

  • 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafers (Nilla wafers or similar)

Optional garnish:

  • Crushed wafers or wafer crumbs

  • Banana slices or mint leaves for decoration

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Stir in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Chill for 10–15 minutes.

  2. Make whipped cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

  3. Assemble the trifle:

    • In a trifle bowl or large glass dish, spread a layer of vanilla wafers.

    • Add a layer of sliced bananas.

    • Spread a generous layer of pudding mixture.

    • Add a layer of whipped cream.

    • Repeat the layers until the bowl is full, ending with whipped cream on top.

  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best flavor).

  5. Serve: Before serving, garnish with crushed wafers or banana slices.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture — too soft, and they’ll get mushy quickly.

  • Chill the trifle long enough for the flavors to meld together.

  • You can use store-bought whipped topping (Cool Whip) instead of homemade whipped cream for convenience.

  • For a flavor twist, try adding a layer of caramel drizzle or peanut butter sauce.

Tips

  • Prevent browning: Lightly toss banana slices in lemon juice to slow oxidation.

  • Make ahead: Assemble the trifle a day before serving — it tastes even better after sitting overnight.

  • Individual servings: Use small mason jars or dessert cups for portioned mini trifles.

  • Add crunch: Mix some crushed wafers into one pudding layer for texture variation.

Servings

  • Makes about 10–12 servings

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 5g

  • Carbohydrates: 48g

  • Fat: 13g

  • Saturated Fat: 8g

  • Cholesterol: 45mg

  • Sodium: 240mg

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugars: 33g

Benefits

  • Rich in potassium from bananas — supports heart and muscle health.

  • Calcium boost from milk and pudding.

  • A comforting dessert that satisfies cravings without being overly heavy.

  • Easy to make ahead for gatherings and guaranteed to impress guests.

Q&A

Q: Can I use banana pudding instead of vanilla?
A: Absolutely! Banana pudding intensifies the banana flavor and works beautifully.

Q: How long does banana pudding trifle last in the fridge?
A: It stays fresh for up to 3 days when covered and refrigerated.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes, use dairy-free pudding mix, coconut milk, and whipped coconut cream.

Q: Can I freeze the trifle?
A: It’s not recommended — freezing can make the bananas watery and the texture grainy.

Q: How can I make it look fancy?
A: Use a clear glass trifle bowl and layer neatly — alternating colors for a beautiful presentation.

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