Old-Fashioned Southern Banana Pudding 🍌✨

Southern banana pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition, a comfort food, and a taste of home all wrapped into one creamy, dreamy bite. This decadent homemade banana pudding layers buttery shortbread cookies, ripe bananas, and a trio of rich pudding flavors, all topped with homemade whipped cream and a drizzle of salted caramel.

Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy night in, this banana pudding gets even better as it chills, making it the ultimate make-ahead treat.

Let’s dive into this indulgent Southern classic that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

1 box (3.4 oz) French vanilla pudding mix (adds a rich, creamy base)
1 box (3.4 oz) banana cream pudding mix (enhances the banana flavor!)
1 box (3.4 oz) butterscotch pudding mix (for a hint of caramel-like depth)
1 ½ cups evaporated milk (for extra creaminess and richness)
1 ½ cups sweetened condensed milk (adds a luscious sweetness!)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (a touch of warmth and depth)
4-5 ripe bananas, thinly sliced (the star of the show!)

For the Homemade Whipped Cream:

1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (whipped to fluffy perfection)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (adds sweetness without graininess)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for a light, aromatic touch)

For the Layers & Topping:

1 package shortbread cookies or Chessman cookies (for buttery, crisp layers)
Extra bananas (medium to thickly sliced, for topping) (because more bananas = better!)
½ cup homemade salted caramel sauce (drizzle for the ultimate indulgence!)
Cookie crumbs (for garnish) (a little crunch on top!)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, combine the French vanilla, banana cream, and butterscotch pudding mixes. Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk, making sure there are no lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract, then let the pudding sit for about 5 minutes until thickened.

(Pro Tip: For an extra smooth pudding, use an electric mixer on low speed for 1-2 minutes!)

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream

In a cold mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip until stiff peaks form (about 2-3 minutes). Set aside.

(Pro Tip: Chill your bowl and beaters in the fridge for 15 minutes before whipping—it helps the cream whip up faster!)

Step 3: Assemble the Pudding

Layer 1:

Line the bottom of a large glass dish or trifle bowl with shortbread or Chessman cookies.
Add a layer of thinly sliced bananas on top of the cookies.

Layer 2:

Pour half of the pudding mixture over the bananas, spreading it evenly.

Layer 3:

Add another layer of cookies followed by another layer of banana slices.
Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the second banana layer.

Step 4: Top & Garnish

Spread the homemade whipped cream evenly over the top of the pudding.
Stand extra shortbread or Chessman cookies upright around the edges for a decorative touch.
Arrange thickly sliced bananas on top.
Drizzle generously with homemade salted caramel sauce.
Sprinkle cookie crumbs over the top for a final flourish.

(Pro Tip: If you’re making this in advance, wait to add the final banana topping right before serving to keep them fresh!)

Step 5: Chill & Serve

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften slightly, creating that signature Southern banana pudding texture.
When ready to serve, scoop into bowls and enjoy each rich, creamy, banana-filled bite!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

✔ Make Ahead: Banana pudding tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect dessert for meal prep and parties.
✔ Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
✔ Prevent Browning: Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering to keep them fresh-looking.
✔ Not Freezer-Friendly: Due to the dairy-based pudding, this dessert doesn’t freeze well—but trust me, it won’t last long anyway!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Rich & Creamy: The pudding layers are silky smooth, blending vanilla, banana, and butterscotch flavors beautifully.
✔ Decadent & Indulgent: With real whipped cream and homemade caramel drizzle, this is a step above ordinary banana pudding.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing & Nostalgic: A true Southern classic that brings back warm, comforting memories!
✔ Easy to Prepare: No baking required—just mix, layer, and chill!

Perfect Pairings

Pair this banana pudding with:

A strong cup of coffee for a contrast of flavors.
A glass of sweet iced tea for a true Southern experience.
A side of warm pound cake for an extra special treat.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Old-Fashioned Southern Banana Pudding has stood the test of time—it’s simple, satisfying, and downright delicious. Whether you’re making it for Sunday supper, a potluck, or a holiday dessert table, this decadent, creamy banana pudding is sure to be a showstopper!

So grab a spoon and dig in—this one’s a keeper!

Old-Fashioned Southern Banana Pudding 🍌✨