Name: Banana Pudding Lush
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 6 h 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafer crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup melted butter; 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups whipped topping, thawed; 4 ripe bananas, sliced; 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix; 3 cups cold milk; 2 cups whipped topping, thawed (for topping); 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers (for garnish); Optional: extra banana slices and whole wafers for garnish

A dreamy layered dessert that’s creamy, crowd‑pleasing, and no‑bake—true Southern indulgence in every bite.

Banana Pudding Lush

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I fell in love with this dessert’s perfect harmony of textures: a crisp vanilla wafer crust, smooth cream‑cheese layer, soft banana slices, silky pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s a showstopper for family gatherings, potlucks, or when I want a sweet treat without turning on the oven. Plus, it can chill ahead—a lifesaver when hosting.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crust
- Crushed vanilla wafer crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Melted butter
Cream Cheese Layer
- Cream cheese, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Thawed whipped topping
Banana Layer
- Ripe bananas, sliced
Pudding Layer
- Instant vanilla and banana pudding mixes
- Cold milk
Topping
- Thawed whipped topping
- Crushed vanilla wafers
- Optional garnish: extra banana slices and whole wafers

directions

Preheat & Prep Crust
I preheat to 350 °F and lightly grease a 13×9 pan. Then, I mix wafer crumbs, sugar, and butter, pressing firmly into the pan. Bake 20 minutes until set and lightly golden. Cool completely.
Cream Cheese Layer
I beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Then I fold in whipped topping and spread it over the cooled crust.
Add Bananas
I layer sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese mixture.
Pudding Layer
I whisk both pudding mixes with cold milk for about 3 minutes until thickened yet pourable, then pour it over the bananas.
Top It Off
I spread the remaining whipped topping on, then sprinkle crushed wafers on top.
Chill
I cover the dish and chill for at least 4–6 hours (overnight if possible) for best results.
Garnish & Serve
Just before serving, I top it with extra banana slices and whole wafers.

Servings and timing

Servings: about 12 pieces
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Bake crust: 20 minutes
Chill time: 4–6 hours (best overnight)
Total time: ~6 hours 40 minutes

Variations

Crust swap: Graham crackers make a great substitute. Some versions use light brown sugar for extra depth.
Homemade whipped cream: Replace Cool Whip with 6 cups homemade whipped cream (3 cups heavy cream +¾ cup powdered sugar) for a fresher flavor.
Layer tweak: I sometimes add banana slices between the creamy layer and pudding for more banana bursts.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
I don’t freeze it—bananas brown and texture suffers.
If I plan to serve later, I skip adding banana slices until plating to keep them fresh looking.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be?

I choose medium-ripe bananas—yellow with a few brown flecks—so they hold shape without overpowering sweetness.

Can I use just vanilla or just banana pudding mix?

I’ve used just vanilla pudding, but I love the depth banana pudding adds. Mixing both is my favorite.

Is it okay to skip baking the crust?

Yes. A no-bake version with graham crumbs pressed and chilled works—though baking helps it set firmly.

Can this be made ahead?

Absolutely—I often assemble it the night before and chill overnight before serving.

Can I make it smaller or larger?

Yes. Just scale ingredient quantities and use a smaller or larger pan. Chill time stays the same, though a deeper dish may need a bit longer.

Conclusion

I adore how this Banana Pudding Lush delivers classic Southern flavors with minimal effort. Its layers create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re planning ahead for an event or want a sweet finish to your day, this no-bake delight is my go-to. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, banana-filled bite.