If you have a sweet tooth and adore creamy, dreamy desserts, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat. This luscious treat captures everything wonderful about the original bakery classic, combining velvety vanilla pudding, perfectly ripe bananas, and crunchy Nilla wafers into a beautiful harmony of textures and flavors. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or enjoy it as an indulgent after-dinner delight, this recipe brings the magic of Magnolia Bakery right into your kitchen, creating moments of comfort and joy with every spoonful.

Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat relies on simple ingredients, but each one plays a starring role in crafting that unforgettable taste and texture. From the rich creaminess of the pudding and heavy cream to the slight crunch and subtle vanilla notes of the Nilla wafers, these components combine effortlessly to build layers of pure delight.

Nilla wafers: The classic cookie base that adds sweetness and delightful crunch to every bite.
Bananas (6 to 10): Choose ripe but firm bananas for perfect texture and sweetness.
Heavy cream (3 cups): Provides that silky, rich texture when whipped to stiff peaks.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the vanilla notes throughout the pudding and whipped cream.
Instant vanilla pudding mix (5 ounces): The quick and easy foundation for that signature creamy pudding layer.
Sweetened condensed milk (1 can): Adds a luscious sweetness and velvety smoothness.
Cold milk (2 cups): Necessary to activate the instant pudding mix and balance creaminess.
Cream cheese (1/4 cup, softened): Adds depth and richness, making the pudding irresistibly smooth.
Crumbs of Nilla wafers (2 cups): Blended into a fine texture to create a buttery crust base.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Binds the wafer crumbs to form a crust that’s both crisp and tender.

How to Make Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

Start by whisking together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk in a bowl. This mixture needs to sit for about 10 minutes so it thickens up beautifully, setting the stage for that creamy texture you expect in every bite of the Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat.

Step 2: Combine Sweetened Condensed Milk and Cream Cheese

Once the pudding has thickened, add the sweetened condensed milk and softened cream cheese. Whisk vigorously or use a stand mixer to combine until the mixture is perfectly smooth and velvety. This step enriches the pudding, making it taste heavenly and giving it that signature richness that feels like a warm hug.

Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream

In a separate bowl, add the heavy cream with the vanilla extract. Using an electric whisk, beat the cream until stiff peaks form—this is the fluffy cloud that lightens up the pudding mixture. Be careful not to over-beat, as the cream should hold its shape but still be smooth and light.

Step 4: Gently Fold Pudding and Whipped Cream

Next, fold the whipped cream carefully into your pudding base with a rubber spatula. This step is key to maintaining the airy lightness of the whipped cream while keeping the pudding silky and smooth. Fold just enough to combine—the fluffier, the better!

Step 5: Make the Nilla Wafer Crust

Using a food processor, pulse the Nilla wafers into fine crumbs that resemble sand. Mix these crumbs with the melted butter to create a crust mixture that’s rich, buttery, and packed with that nostalgic vanilla cookie flavor. This crust is essential for bringing texture contrast to your pudding layers.

Step 6: Assemble Your Banana Pudding Layers

You can assemble your dessert in individual cups, a large casserole dish, or a trifle bowl. Start by pressing the crust mixture firmly into the bottom. Then add a layer of freshly sliced bananas, followed by a layer of whole Nilla wafers. Spoon a generous layer of the vanilla pudding over, repeating the layering process—bananas, wafers, then pudding—until your dish or cups are full. Usually, two layers work perfectly.

Step 7: Chill and Let It Set

Place your assembled Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 6 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften ever so slightly beneath the creamy pudding, creating that melt-in-your-mouth consistency everyone raves about.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy

When you’re ready to serve, garnish with a single Nilla wafer, a perfect slice of banana, and a sprinkle of crushed Nilla wafer crumbs for a beautiful presentation that invites smiles and second helpings.

How to Serve Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate this dessert beautifully. A crisp Nilla wafer, a thin banana slice fanned neatly, and a light dusting of crushed wafers add texture and visual appeal. These finishing touches not only look charming but also give your first spoonful that perfect crunch and freshness.

Side Dishes

The beauty of this banana pudding recipe is it stands tall on its own, but pairing it with light, fresh side dishes rounds out the meal wonderfully. Think fruit salads or a crisp mixed green salad with citrus vinaigrette. If you’re hosting a Southern-inspired supper, classic dishes like fried chicken or collard greens complement the sweetness nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel like changing things up? Try layering the pudding in mason jars for a charming picnic dessert or create parfait-style servings with alternating layers of toasted nuts or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth. Another crowd-pleasing idea is to use clear glass bowls so the beautiful layers of the Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat shine through, tempting everyone at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pudding keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors. Over time, some of the wafer texture may soften further, but that just adds to the pudding’s signature creamy comfort.

Freezing

Since the pudding contains fresh bananas, freezing isn’t ideal because the fruit can become mushy. For best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to enjoy your Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating is not necessary or recommended. The magic of this treat is in its cool, creamy layers and fresh fruit, which shine brightest straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant mix?

Absolutely! While the instant pudding mix keeps the recipe quick and easy, you can certainly substitute with a homemade vanilla pudding. Just make sure it’s thick and chilled before layering to maintain the right texture.

What type of bananas work best?

Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm to the touch. Overripe bananas can be too mushy and overpower the pudding, while underripe ones might be too starchy. The balance results in fresh sweetness and a pleasant bite.

Is there a way to make this pudding gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the Nilla wafers for a gluten-free vanilla cookie or wafer alternative, and make sure your pudding mix is gluten-free. The deliciousness remains, with a safe option for gluten-sensitive friends.

Can I make this pudding dairy-free?

This version relies heavily on dairy for that luscious texture, but you can experiment with dairy-free milk, cream alternatives, and cream cheese substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might slightly differ from the classic Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat.

How long can the pudding sit before serving?

It’s best to chill the pudding for at least 6 hours to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften perfectly. However, it can be made up to 24 hours ahead, making it a great dessert to prepare the day before your event.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about recreating a beloved bakery classic like the Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat at home. With its creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and nostalgic wafer crunch, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and comfort food favorite. I encourage you to dive into this recipe, savor the process, and enjoy every luscious, dreamy spoonful. Your friends and family will be asking for the secret, and you’ll have the perfect story to share alongside a truly memorable dessert.

Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 10 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat recipe recreates the beloved classic dessert that layers creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy Nilla wafers. Perfectly balanced with a rich whipped cream topping and a buttery Nilla wafer crust, this indulgent Southern treat is simple to make and guaranteed to delight with every spoonful.

Instructions

Prepare the pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until well combined. Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes to thicken properly.
Mix pudding with cream cheese and condensed milk: After the pudding has thickened, add the sweetened condensed milk and softened cream cheese. Use a whisk or stand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Make the whipped cream: In a separate large bowl, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat to avoid turning the cream into butter.
Fold whipped cream into pudding mixture: Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture using a rubber spatula. Combine until fully incorporated without deflating the whipped cream. Refrigerate this mixture until ready to assemble.
Prepare the crust: Add the Nilla wafers to a food processor and blend until they become fine crumbs. Transfer to a bowl, then stir in the melted butter until evenly combined and crumbly like a crust.
Assemble the pudding: In individual cups or a large trifle dish, start by adding a layer of the Nilla wafer crust at the bottom. Follow with a layer of sliced bananas, then a layer of whole Nilla wafers. Top with a thick layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat layering with bananas, wafers, and pudding until your container is full, usually about two layers.
Chill the assembled pudding: Cover the final assembled dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
Garnish and serve: Just before serving, decorate the top with a whole Nilla wafer, a banana slice, and crushed Nilla wafer crumbs for texture and presentation. Enjoy your homemade Magnolia Bakery banana pudding!

Notes

Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid overly mushy texture in the pudding.
If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for the whipped topping, though it will be less rich.
Allowing the pudding to chill overnight improves the flavor and texture as the wafers absorb moisture and soften.
You can prepare the dessert up to 2 days in advance and keep refrigerated.
For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake, layering
Cuisine: American, Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (about 180 grams)
Calories: 420
Sugar: 39g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Magnolia Bakery banana pudding, banana pudding copycat, no bake dessert, layered pudding dessert, Southern dessert, Nilla wafers banana pudding