A dreamy, layered dessert featuring whipped cream, vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and crushed vanilla wafers. Light, creamy, and bursting with banana flavor, this no‑bake treat is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you crave a nostalgic and indulgent dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless yet impressive: No baking required—just assemble and chill.
Classic flavour pairing: Bananas and vanilla wafers bring ageless comfort; whipped cream and pudding elevate the creamy texture.
Ideal for make‑ahead: Prepare ahead of time for easier entertaining—the layers meld beautifully when chilled.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 cups cold milk
2 (3.4‑oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups heavy whipping cream
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
6 large bananas, sliced
1 (11‑oz) box vanilla wafer cookies, crushed
Optional: vanilla ice cream or additional whipped topping for serving

directions

In a large bowl, whisk pudding mixes with cold milk for about 2 minutes, until thickened. Chill for 5 minutes.
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding to lighten the mixture.
In a trifle bowl or large glass dish, layer crushed vanilla wafers on the bottom, followed by banana slices and a portion of the pudding‑cream mixture.
Repeat the layers—wafers, bananas, pudding—ending with a final layer of whipped cream on top.
Garnish with extra banana slices and crushed cookies just before serving.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) to allow the flavours and textures to meld.

Servings and timing

Serves: 8–10
Prep time: approximately 20 minutes
Chill time: at least 2 hours
Total time: about 2 hours and 20 minutes (mostly hands‑off time while chilling)

Variations

Richer custard: Substitute one box of pudding mix with homemade pastry cream for extra decadence.
Tropical twist: Add fresh mango or pineapple slices between banana layers for additional freshness.
Spiced wafers: Use cinnamon‑spiced cookies instead of vanilla wafers for warm, autumnal flavour.
Nutty crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts between the layers.
Alcohol‑infused: Drizzle a tablespoon of rum or banana liqueur over each banana layer before assembling.

storage/reheating

Store: Cover and refrigerate any leftover trifle for up to 3 days.
Serve: Best served cold straight from the fridge.
Not suitable for freezing—the cream and pudding textures do not freeze well.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Yes—but ensure it’s firm enough to hold layers (about 3 cups thickened pudding).

2. How ripe should the bananas be?

Use just‑ripe bananas (yellow with little to no brown spots)—too ripe and they may become mushy.

3. Can I assemble it in smaller dishes instead of a trifle bowl?

Absolutely. Use individual parfait glasses for single‑serve portions.

4. How far ahead can I make this dessert?

You can assemble up to the night before and chill—tops will still look fresh if you add the garnish just before serving.

5. Will the bananas brown in the trifle?

Minimal browning occurs when chilled. To reduce visible browning, toss banana slices in a bit of lemon juice before layering.

6. Can I omit the wafers for a gluten-free version?

Yes—substitute with gluten‑free cookies or crushed gluten‑free graham crackers.

7. Is it possible to make this dairy‑free?

Yes—use non‑dairy whipped topping, dairy‑free milk for pudding, and vegan wafers.

8. My pudding was too runny—what can I do?

Refrigerate it until fully set, or whisk in a little whipped cream to thicken before layering.

9. Can I freeze leftover trifle?

Not recommended—freezing alters the texture of the cream and pudding.

10. Can I add other fruits?

Yes—berries, peaches, or kiwi work well as additional layers for both flavour and color contrast.

Conclusion

This Banana Cream Trifle is an easy yet stunning dessert that blends creamy pudding, fresh fruit, and crunchy wafers in harmonious layers. With make‑ahead convenience, flexible variations, and nostalgic charm, it’s sure to be a crowd‑pleaser at any gathering. Chill it, slice it, and enjoy every luscious spoonful.