Description
These no-bake banana pudding cups are a creamy, sweet, and easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion. Layers of smooth vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crisp vanilla wafers or graham crackers come together beautifully, topped with whipped cream and a fresh mint garnish. With minimal prep and chilling time, this indulgent treat is simple yet impressive.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pudding:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Assembly:
- 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 package (12 oz) vanilla wafers or graham crackers
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes so it thickens properly. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Cups: In serving cups or bowls, place a layer of vanilla wafers or graham crackers at the bottom. Spoon a layer of the prepared pudding over the cookies, followed by a layer of sliced bananas. Repeat these layers until the cups are nearly full, finishing with a final layer of pudding on top.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the assembled cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set fully. Just before serving, top each cup with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute almond or oat milk for the whole milk and use dairy-free whipped cream.
- Use banana-flavored instant pudding mix if you prefer a stronger banana flavor.
- Gluten-free cookies can be used instead of vanilla wafers or graham crackers for dietary restrictions.
- Make sure to slice the bananas just before assembling to prevent browning.
- Chilling time is important to allow the pudding to set and the flavors to combine, so do not skip refrigeration.
