Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Banana Pudding Jars are simple to make, rich in flavor, and beautifully layered for serving. The creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and soft cookies create a comforting dessert that tastes nostalgic and satisfying. Individual jars also make them easy to serve and store.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 3 bananas, sliced
- 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
- Crushed cookies
- Caramel drizzle
- Banana slices
- Whipped cream
Directions
In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth and thickened.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture to create a lighter texture.
Place a layer of vanilla wafer cookies into the bottom of each jar.
Add a layer of banana slices over the cookies.
Spoon a layer of pudding mixture over the bananas.
Repeat the layers until the jars are filled.
Top with the remaining whipped cream and optional toppings.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 to 6 jars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer dessert.
Add peanut butter between the layers for extra flavor.
Use graham crackers or shortbread cookies instead of vanilla wafers.
Layer with strawberries or caramel sauce for a fruity twist.
Make mini jars for bite-sized party desserts.
Storage/Reheating
Store Banana Pudding Jars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The cookies soften over time, creating a cake-like texture.
For the freshest appearance, add banana slices shortly before serving if possible.
These desserts are served chilled and do not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I make Banana Pudding Jars ahead of time?
Yes. They are great make-ahead desserts and taste even better after chilling.
What cookies work best?
Vanilla wafer cookies are traditional, but graham crackers or shortbread also work well.
Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes. Homemade vanilla pudding makes the dessert even richer.
Why are my bananas turning brown?
Bananas naturally oxidize when exposed to air. Add them close to serving time for the freshest look.
Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?
Yes. Store-bought whipped topping works as a convenient substitute.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free milk, pudding mix, and whipped topping alternatives.
How long do Banana Pudding Jars last?
They stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Banana Pudding Jars?
Freezing is not recommended because the bananas and pudding texture may change.
Can I add extra toppings?
Yes. Caramel sauce, crushed cookies, chocolate chips, or nuts are delicious additions.
Are Banana Pudding Jars served cold?
Yes. They are best enjoyed chilled directly from the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding Jars are creamy, comforting, and easy-to-make layered desserts filled with sweet bananas, vanilla pudding, and crunchy cookies. Perfect for gatherings or everyday treats, these individual desserts are both nostalgic and delicious.
PrintBanana Pudding Jars
Banana Pudding Jars are creamy no-bake layered desserts filled with vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, whipped cream, and crunchy cookies. These individual treats are comforting, nostalgic, and perfect for parties, picnics, or easy make-ahead desserts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 jars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 3 bananas, sliced
- 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Crushed cookies (optional)
- Caramel drizzle (optional)
- Banana slices (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth and thickened.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture to create a lighter texture.
- Place a layer of vanilla wafer cookies into the bottom of each jar.
- Add a layer of banana slices over the cookies.
- Spoon a layer of pudding mixture over the bananas.
- Repeat the layers until the jars are filled.
- Top with the remaining whipped cream and optional toppings.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Use chocolate pudding for a richer flavor variation.
- Graham crackers or shortbread cookies can replace vanilla wafers.
- Add banana slices shortly before serving for the freshest appearance.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The cookies soften over time, creating a cake-like texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
