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Delicious Paula Deen's Banana Pudding served in a bowl with banana slices on top

Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding

A warm, sweet Southern dessert featuring creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy Nilla wafers, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet Treat
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pudding Mixture
  • 1 box vanilla pudding mix Follow directions on the package
  • 2 cups sweet milk Used for richness
Banana and Wafer Layers
  • 4 medium ripe bananas Slice into even rounds
  • 1 box Nilla wafers To be layered in the dish
Topping (optional)
  • 1 cup whipped cream For serving, optional
  • 1 cup toasted meringue For serving, optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Make the pudding mix according to package directions, using vanilla flavor and sweet milk.
  2. Slice the ripe bananas into even rounds.
Layering
  1. In a dish, layer vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, and then spread a layer of creamy pudding.
  2. Repeat the layers until the dish is full, ending with a thick layer of pudding on top.
Chilling
  1. Chill the pudding for at least 2 hours to set and soften the wafers.
Serving
  1. Before serving, top with whipped cream or toasted meringue, if desired.

Notes

For better texture, let the pudding chill for longer than 2 hours. Store covered in the fridge to prevent drying out. Serve in a big trifle dish or small bowls. Add toasted nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.