Easy Banana Pudding with Jello Instant Pudding

If you love an easy dessert recipe and banana pudding, this banana pudding with Jello comes together in no time. It's delicious, it's simple, and it's truly the best banana pudding recipe. It's also the perfect dessert for all your summer parties!

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You'll love this easy banana pudding with Jello

It's easy to make. This is one of those favorite desserts that looks fancy but is so simple. With a few pantry staples and zero baking required, it’s perfect for last-minute get-togethers. Just grab a large mixing bowl, a whisk (or an electric mixer if you’re feeling fancy), and get to it!

It's delicious. The combo of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and Nilla Wafers is peak comfort. Adding both vanilla and banana pudding mix levels up the flavor, making this feel like a totally homemade pudding with half the effort.

It's a no-bake dessert. No oven? No problem. This banana pudding with Jello sets beautifully in the fridge and it's a great no bake recipe. Just layer, chill, and you're good to go. It's ideal for hot summer days or whenever your sweet tooth strikes.

Ingredients

With a few simple ingredients, this classic southern dessert comes together so easily! 

Nilla Wafers. I used Nilla Wafers, but really any vanilla wafer cookies work! They soften as they sit, making the texture absolutely dreamy.

Cool Whip. Adds a light, fluffy texture that balances the creaminess. You can also use homemade whipped cream if you’re feeling extra.

Cold Milk. Helps your instant pudding set perfectly. Make sure it's cold for best results!

Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix. Most recipes just call for one instant pudding mix, I love mixing together the vanilla and the banana pudding mixes to bring this easy banana pudding recipe to the next level! You know it's all about working smarter not harder over here. 

Instant Banana Cream Pudding Mix. Just to give it that extra banana flavor, making this one of the most delicious desserts you’ll try.

Ripe Bananas. Fresh bananas are a must to layer throughout the pudding! 

Vanilla Extract. Just a splash deepens the flavor and gives it a warm, bakery-style vibe.

How to make this banana pudding with Jello

This easy southern banana pudding is so easy to make, no culinary skills necessary! 

1. In a large bowl, combine your cold milk, vanilla pudding, and banana pudding.
2. Whisk that together until the pudding is fully combined, and then fold in your tub of Cool Whip. Set aside.
3. Slice 3-4 bananas. Set aside.
4. In a trifle dish, set a layer of Nilla Wafers and top with banana slices.
5. On top of that, add a few spoonfuls of your pudding mixture.
6. Repeat steps 4 an 5 until your pudding mixture is gone and your trifle dish is full. Your pudding mixture should be on top once finished.
7. Cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
8. Once you're ready to serve, crush your remaining vanilla wafers and crumble them on top of the pudding. Add a dollop of whipped cream and fresh banana slices.

Storing leftover banana pudding

Store any leftover banana pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. 

Substitutions and variations

• Make these as individual servings! You can serve them in mason jars or dessert cups. If you don't have a trifle dish but want that big batch format, you could also use a casserole dish!
• Want to make it richer? Blend in some room temperature cream cheese for a tangy twist that takes this to the next level.
• A little goes a long way in adding creamy sweetness. Blend it with your pudding mixture for a silky-smooth finish.
• Swap Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream if you prefer a richer, less processed option.
• Use shortbread cookies or graham crackers instead of Nilla Wafers.
• Add a layer of sliced strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Want more texture? Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts between the layers.

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This banana pudding with Jello recipe is a must-save for the next time you're craving something sweet, nostalgic, and super easy. It’s ideal for BBQs, baby showers, Sunday suppers, or even just a Tuesday night treat.

Want more easy dessert recipes?

• Fudgy Brownie Cookies use brownie mix to make the ultimate chocolate cookie! 
• This S'Mores Snack Mix is another great no-bake dessert recipe for the summer!
• Homemade Dunkaroo Dip is so easy to make and such a fun, nostalgic treat!