How long does no bake banana pudding dessert last in the fridge?

This dessert stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. It's best enjoyed within the first 24–48 hours when the bananas are still vibrant, and the wafers are perfectly soft but not soggy.

Can I make banana pudding dessert the night before?

Absolutely. In fact, making it the night before is ideal. The chilling time helps the pudding firm up and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It also softens the vanilla wafers into a cake-like consistency, enhancing the overall texture.

What if my bananas start browning in the pudding?

To prevent browning, lightly coat banana slices with lemon juice before layering. While slight discoloration doesn't affect the taste, pre-treating them keeps the presentation appealing, especially if you're serving it at events or parties.

No Bake Banana Pudding Dessert – Easy Recipe

Name: No Bake Banana Pudding Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) vanilla instant pudding mix: Forms the creamy base with classic flavor.; 3 cups cold milk: Used to set the pudding and create a smooth texture.; 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Adds fluffiness and light texture.; 4 bananas, sliced: Provides natural sweetness and soft, fruity layers.; 1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers: Adds structure and softens into a cake-like layer.

Description

This no bake banana pudding dessert is a creamy, nostalgic, and easy-to-make treat layered with vanilla pudding, bananas, whipped topping, and vanilla wafers. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or weeknight indulgences — no oven required!

Ingredients

Scale

2 boxes (3.4 oz each) vanilla instant pudding mix: Forms the creamy base with classic flavor.
3 cups cold milk: Used to set the pudding and create a smooth texture.
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Adds fluffiness and light texture.
4 bananas, sliced: Provides natural sweetness and soft, fruity layers.
1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers: Adds structure and softens into a cake-like layer.

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to set.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined and the mixture is light and creamy.
In a 9×13-inch dish, place a layer of vanilla wafers across the bottom.
Top with a layer of sliced bananas evenly over the wafers.
Spread a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
Repeat the layers (wafers, bananas, pudding) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a pudding layer on top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours (or overnight) to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften.
Serve chilled. Optionally garnish with extra banana slices or crushed wafers before serving.

Notes

Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from turning mushy too quickly.
For extra banana flavor, substitute one box of vanilla pudding with banana pudding.
Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor depth.
Toss banana slices in lemon juice to reduce browning if making ahead.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/12th of dish)
Calories: 280
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg