Classic Banana Pudding for a Crowd Recipe
This Classic Banana Pudding recipe is perfect for feeding a large crowd with its creamy vanilla pudding layers, fresh banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafers. Easy to prepare and no baking required, this nostalgic Southern dessert is ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday parties. The recipe offers foolproof layering techniques and tips to keep bananas fresh while delivering a fluffy, luscious pudding that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
Scale
For the pudding mixture:
- 44 oz sweetened condensed milk (preferably Eagle Brand)
- 4.5 cups ice-cold water
- 10.5 oz instant vanilla pudding mix (Jell-O brand)
- 6 cups heavy cream
For the layers:
- 30 oz vanilla wafers (Nilla Wafers recommended)
- 14 bananas, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the garnish and assembly:
- Heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks (for topping)
- 1 rectangular pan
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and ice-cold water until well combined, which helps the pudding set faster and yields a smoother texture. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until fully incorporated and slightly thickened. Set aside and chill for 5 minutes.
- Whip the Cream and Prepare the Bananas: Slice the bananas into ½-inch rounds and immediately toss them with lemon juice in a bowl to prevent browning. In a separate large bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Pudding and Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding base in two or three additions, carefully folding each time to preserve the airy texture. This results in the signature creamy and fluffy pudding mixture.
- Layer the Pudding, Wafers, and Bananas: In a rectangular pan, spread a thin layer of the pudding mixture on the bottom. Add a layer of vanilla wafers, then banana slices, followed by more pudding. Repeat the layers finishing with a pudding layer on top. Reserve some banana slices and wafers for an attractive garnish on top. Ensure even distribution so every serving contains all components.
- Chill Overnight and Serve: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften. Just before serving, optionally add whipped cream dollops on top to enhance presentation. Serve chilled straight from the fridge for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use bananas that are ripe but still firm, mostly yellow with a few brown spots for best flavor and appearance.
- Toss banana slices immediately with lemon juice to prevent unsightly browning.
- Do not press down on vanilla wafers when layering to maintain a light texture.
- Chilling overnight is essential for proper wafer softening and flavor melding.
- Make-ahead tip: prepare pudding base a day ahead, keep refrigerated, and assemble with bananas and wafers just before serving.
- Store leftover pudding covered in the fridge for up to 3 days; best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
- Whipped cream topping can be freshly made or use store-bought whipped topping in a pinch.
Keywords: banana pudding, crowd recipe, no bake dessert, vanilla wafers, potluck dessert, classic banana pudding, southern dessert, easy banana pudding, layered pudding dessert
