Oh, my goodness! If you’re looking for a dessert that will make your heart sing and your taste buds dance, you’ve come to the right place! Today, I’m thrilled to share my Banana Pudding Cake recipe with you. This delightful treat is layered with creamy banana pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, making it the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll have time to enjoy it with your family after a busy day of quick family dinners or even while preparing some easy pasta recipes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore!
- Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy it in no time.
- Layers of flavor and texture that create a delightful experience with every bite.
- Can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinner ideas.
Ingredients
To make this scrumptious Banana Pudding Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers (plus extra for topping)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious cake! Here’s how to make a banana pudding cake that will have everyone asking for seconds:
- Prepare and bake the yellow cake mix according to package directions in a 9×13 inch pan. Let it cool completely.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cold milk and banana pudding mix until thickened. Chill for 5 minutes.
- Spread the banana pudding evenly over the cooled cake. Press sliced bananas gently into the pudding layer.
- Spread whipped topping over the pudding and banana layers to cover completely.
- Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Banana Pudding Cake turns out perfectly every time:
- Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
- For a fun twist, try adding a layer of caramel sauce between the pudding and whipped topping.
- If you want to make this a Banana Bread Pudding Cake, consider using leftover bread instead of cake!
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings, like chocolate shavings or nuts!
How to Serve
This Banana Pudding Cake is best served chilled, making it a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal. I love to serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. You can also pair it with some fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. It’s perfect for family gatherings, birthday parties, or just a cozy night in!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re planning ahead, this cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days, but I doubt it will last that long because it’s just too delicious!
So, there you have it! My Banana Pudding Cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a breeze to make. Whether you’re looking for a sweet ending to your weeknight dinner ideas or a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion, this cake is sure to impress. Don’t forget to check out my other recipes like Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Chinese Takeout and Cabbage Soup Diet for more delicious meal ideas. Happy baking!
Banana Pudding Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare and bake the cake according to package directions; let cool.
- Whisk milk and pudding mix until thickened; chill for 5 minutes.
- Spread pudding over cooled cake; press banana slices into pudding.
- Top with whipped topping and sprinkle crushed wafers.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.