this Trifle banana pudding It’s a beautiful way to display classic banana pudding. It consists of creamy banana pudding (quick to make), whipped cream for a fluffy cheesecake, fresh banana slices, and classic Nilla wafers, placed together in a glass trifle dish. A glass bowl works well too. Using a glass for this dessert is a great way to see all the layers.

I first had banana pudding several years ago when I was in the heart of the South (Savannah, Georgia) doing a project with Paula Deen. She’s always been the queen of these traditional Southern desserts, and sure enough…banana pudding appeared on the table after a hearty dinner of Shrimp and grits. I think it was there Key lime pie also!

Banana pudding trifle in a trifle dish

Southerners really know how to make great comfort food (especially dessert). And that trip to Georgia is where I fell in love with banana pudding. It’s crazy that I haven’t shared a recipe for this delicious dessert yet. I make a lot of desserts without baking (Oreo pie, cheesecake and Cookies). But I’ve stashed away this trivial no-bake banana pudding recipe to share sometime. That time is now! I hope you enjoy this easy-to-make, yet impressive dessert as much as I do.

Ingredients shown for making banana pudding trifle

This isn’t just banana pudding and whipped cream. The secret is the cheesecake-style whipped cream layer. The cream cheese adds a rich, crunchy touch that balances the sweetness of the pudding and bananas perfectly. If you are Cheese loverYou will love this!

Four pictures showing how to make banana pudding

How to make banana pudding trifle

  1. Step 1: Make the banana pudding layer. Beat cold milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and instant banana pudding until thick and smooth. Place it in the refrigerator while preparing the rest of the layers.
  2. Step 2: Make the cream cheese whipped cream. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the powdered sugar and vanilla. Add the heavy whipping cream and beat with an electric mixer until thick, fluffy and spreadable. Chill until ready to assemble.
  3. Step 3: Assemble the trifle. Place the Nilla wafers in the bottom of the trifle dish, followed by the banana slices, half the pudding, and half the whipped cream. Repeat the layers again. Finish with banana slices and Nilla wafers (whole or crushed) on top.
  4. Step 4: Chill. Place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving so that the flavors blend and the layers combine.
Whole shot of banana pudding

Recipe tips

  • Use ripe but firm bananas. If they are too soft, they will brown quickly.
  • Assemble your trifle pieces near serving time if you want your bananas to look extra fresh.
  • Place plastic wrap tightly over the top, then cool well. This helps the layers adhere beautifully.
  • Use instant pudding, not “cook and serve.”
  • A glass bowl will work well if you don’t have a trifle dish.
  • Leftovers keep well for two to three days in the refrigerator (if available!).
Banana pudding trifle

This dessert is perfect to bring to a potluck or barbecue. Any time you need a guaranteed crowd pleaser, this is the dessert to bring. It’s the perfect dessert for the holidays. It’s the perfect ending to a family dinner because everyone will enjoy it!

A side of banana pudding trifle

Southern-style banana pudding cake is one of those desserts that never goes out of style. Do you think this candy has been a staple in the South since the 1920s when Nabisco introduced vanilla wafers? It’s creamy, comforting, easy to make and always popular with kids and adults. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because you’re craving a classic dessert, this trifle is sure to be loved.

Serve the banana pudding trifle on a plate

If you’re interested in making more sweets in your trifle dish, try my recipes Trifle layers of berries, Pumpkin gingerbread cake, Trifle red velvet cake and Mint brownie trifle, hot oreo fudge.

Preparing the banana pudding layer:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together cold milk, sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Whisk for 3 minutes, until the instant pudding has melted and the pudding has thickened. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Preparing the whipped cream layer:

  • In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until creamy. Mix powdered sugar and vanilla. Then add the heavy whipping cream and whip until thick. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Trivia compilation:

  • Use a small plate (or glass bowl). Cover the bottom of the dish with Nilla chips. Place banana slices on top of the chips. Spoon half of the pudding mixture next time. Then pour half of the whipped cream mixture over the pudding. Add another layer of Nilla wafers, banana slices, pudding and whipped cream. Decorate the top of the truffles with more banana slices and nila wafers/crushed nila wafers.

Submission: 1service, Calories: 797Kcal, Carbohydrates: 95g, protein: 11g, fat: 43g, Saturated fat: 25g, Polyunsaturated fats: 4g, Monounsaturated fats: 11g, Trans fats: 0.1g, Cholesterol: 116mg, Sodium: 510mg, Potassium: 664mg, Fiber: 3g, sugar: 67g, Vitamin A: 1524IU, Vitamin C: 8mg, Calcium: 255mg, iron: 0.4mg

Nutritional information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an estimate.