Banana Pudding Cups Recipe are a delightful, no-bake dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafers, these individual servings are a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple and quick: No baking required and ready in under 20 minutes.
Perfect for gatherings: Individual servings make it convenient and elegant for parties.
Customizable: You can tweak the layers and flavors to suit your taste.
Kid-friendly: Both fun to make and eat, making it a great family activity.
Great for make-ahead: Chill them for a few hours, and they’re ready to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers (plus extra for garnish)
Whole vanilla wafers (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the pudding: Whisk the pudding mix and cold milk together in a mixing bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for about 5 minutes to let it set.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture for a creamy, light texture.
Assemble the cups: In small serving cups or jars, layer crushed vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding. Repeat these layers until the cups are filled.
Top and garnish: Add a dollop of whipped topping, sprinkle extra crushed wafers, and place a whole vanilla wafer on top for garnish.
Chill: Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Variations
Add some crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, between the layers.
Change the flavor: Swap the vanilla pudding for banana, chocolate, or even butterscotch pudding.
Healthier option: Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping.
Add caramel: Drizzle a little caramel sauce between the layers for an extra indulgence.
Make it fancy: Serve in wine glasses or dessert bowls for an elegant presentation.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Cover the pudding cups with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Avoid reheating: These are meant to be served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat.
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FAQs
Can I make Banana Pudding Cups ahead of time?
Yes, they can be prepared a few hours in advance. However, I recommend assembling them no more than 24 hours ahead to prevent the bananas from browning.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works well and adds a fresher taste to the dessert.
How do I keep the bananas from browning?
Toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering to slow the browning process.
Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cups?
Freezing is not recommended, as the pudding and whipped topping may lose their creamy texture when thawed.
What can I substitute for vanilla wafers?
You can use graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or even shortbread cookies as an alternative.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding Cups are a delightful dessert that combines layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy wafers for a treat everyone will love. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for both everyday indulgence and special occasions. Prepare them ahead of time, get creative with the layers, and enjoy a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
📖 Recipe:
PrintBanana Pudding Cups Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including Chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Banana Pudding Cups are a quick and easy no-bake dessert perfect for parties or family treats. Layered with creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, these delightful individual servings are both elegant and delicious.
Ingredients
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers (plus extra for garnish)
Whole vanilla wafers (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: In a bowl, whisk the pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Refrigerate for 5 minutes to set.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding for a creamy texture.
- Assemble the cups: In individual serving cups, layer crushed vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding. Repeat until the cups are filled.
- Top and garnish: Add a dollop of whipped topping, sprinkle crushed wafers, and place a whole vanilla wafer on top.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
Notes
To prevent banana slices from browning, toss them in lemon juice before layering.
For variations, try different pudding flavors or add caramel drizzle.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings