Name: Banana Pudding Cups Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix; 2 cups cold milk; 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed; 2 cups sliced ripe bananas; 1 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies; Optional garnish of extra banana slices or cookie crumbs

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Imagine all the cozy nostalgia of classic Southern banana pudding, perfectly portioned just for you—welcome to the world of Banana Pudding Cups! This dreamy, no-bake dessert layers creamy vanilla pudding, airy whipped topping, sweet, ripe bananas, and buttery vanilla wafers into individual cups for a treat that’s as adorable as it is crave-worthy. Whether you’re prepping a make-ahead dessert for a party, serving weeknight comfort, or indulging in a solo treat, these Banana Pudding Cups deliver the ultimate trifecta of texture, flavor, and sheer happiness in every spoonful.

Banana Pudding Cups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pudding:
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
For Assembly:
- 2 cups sliced ripe bananas
- 1 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- Optional garnish of extra banana slices or cookie crumbs

How to Make Banana Pudding Cups

Step 1: Make the Pudding

Start by whisking the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk in a medium bowl. It’s important to keep whisking for a full two minutes so that your pudding thickens up nicely—this is your all-important base. The instant nature of the pudding means you’re only minutes away from dessert bliss!

Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Once your pudding is thick and dreamy, gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping. This step transforms your pudding into something lighter and silkier, creating those wonderful, airy layers that practically melt on your tongue but still feel satisfyingly rich.

Step 3: Layer the Cups

Now the fun begins! Grab your mini mason jars or clear dessert cups. Start with a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on the bottom for a buttery crunch, then add a layer of sliced bananas for fresh, fruity sweetness. Spoon a generous layer of the pudding mixture over top. Repeat with more wafers, bananas, and pudding until your cups are full, making sure to finish with pudding as the final layer.

Step 4: Add the Topping

Using a spoon or a piping bag, delicately mound or swirl the remaining whipped topping over each cup. This crowning touch makes your Banana Pudding Cups look and taste extra special, adding lightness with every mouthful.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

Patience pays off here—refrigerate your cups for at least one hour. This short chill gives the flavors time to meld and the wafers to soften ever so slightly. When you’re ready to serve, add garnishes like extra banana slices or a scattering of cookie crumbs for a showstopping finish.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Cups

Garnishes

Go the extra mile by topping each cup with a little flourish: a fan of fresh banana slices, a pinch of extra cookie crumbs, or even a dollop of whipped topping piped on with style. Not only do these add delicious texture and visual appeal, but they also signal that this isn’t just any dessert—it’s a celebration!

Side Dishes

Since Banana Pudding Cups are rich and satisfying, pair them with lighter fare if you’re serving at a gathering. Fresh berries, a tangy fruit salad, or even petite shortbread cookies make excellent companions, balancing out the creamy sweetness while keeping things festive and fun.

Creative Ways to Present

Lean into the irresistible charm of these individual treats! Try layering your Banana Pudding Cups in mini mason jars for instant rustic appeal, or opt for clear shot glasses for something sleek and modern. For kids’ parties, use colorful plastic cups, or set up a DIY layering bar so guests can assemble custom versions with toppings like chopped nuts, grated chocolate, or caramel drizzle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Banana Pudding Cups keep beautifully in the fridge. Just cover each cup tightly (a simple layer of plastic wrap will do) and enjoy them within 2–3 days. The wafers will soften over time, giving that classic blend of creamy and cakey textures everyone loves.

Freezing

Although you can freeze Banana Pudding Cups, defrosting can change the texture—especially of the bananas and whipped topping. If you must freeze, make sure the cups are well-covered, and let them thaw slowly in the fridge before eating. For best results, enjoy these cups fresh.

Reheating

No reheating required! Banana Pudding Cups are best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge, so you can savor every refreshing spoonful without any extra steps.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Absolutely! If you have the time, homemade vanilla pudding brings even more depth to your Banana Pudding Cups. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before assembling your layers so everything stays neat and creamy.

How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?

To help keep your banana slices looking fresh, you can toss them very lightly in lemon juice before layering. The pudding and whipped topping also provide a helpful barrier against air, which slows browning.

Can I make Banana Pudding Cups in advance for a party?

Yes, these are perfect for making ahead! Prepare and chill up to 24 hours in advance. Add fresh garnishes just before serving for the best presentation and flavor.

Can I use different cookies or toppings?

Definitely! Swap vanilla wafers for graham crackers, shortbread, or even chocolate cookies for a fun twist. Get creative with toppings like toasted coconut, mini chocolate chips, or nuts—make your Banana Pudding Cups truly your own.

Are there gluten-free or lighter options?

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free vanilla wafers or cookies. If you want to lighten things up, choose sugar-free pudding mix and light or fat-free whipped topping, and your Banana Pudding Cups will still taste delicious.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a banana pudding fanatic or just looking for a breezy, crowd-pleasing treat, you owe it to yourself to whip up a batch of these Banana Pudding Cups. They’re delightful to make and even more fun to eat—so grab your favorite cups and get layering!

Banana Pudding Cups Recipe

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4.7 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these delightful Banana Pudding Cups that offer layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy wafer cookies. This easy no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pudding:

1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed

For Assembly:

2 cups sliced ripe bananas
1 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies
Optional garnish of extra banana slices or cookie crumbs

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Instructions

Prepare the Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until smooth.
Assemble the Cups: Layer crushed vanilla wafers at the bottom of each serving cup, followed by banana slices and a layer of pudding mixture. Repeat layers until the cups are filled, finishing with pudding on top.
Top and Chill: Spoon or pipe the remaining whipped topping over each cup. Garnish with extra banana slices or cookie crumbs if desired. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.