Banana Pudding in a Jar Recipe

Introduction

Banana Pudding in a Jar is a delightful and portable twist on a classic Southern dessert. Layered with creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy Nilla wafers, it’s perfect for gatherings or a simple treat at home.

Ingredients

• 1 (4-serving size) box instant vanilla pudding
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• Nilla Wafer cookies
• 2–3 ripe bananas
• 1 pint whipping cream
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold water, and sweetened condensed milk. Mix well until smooth, then place the bowl in the refrigerator to chill for a few minutes.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of the whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture, combining them thoroughly.
3. Step 3: Slice the bananas into 1/4-inch thick slices, preparing them for layering.
4. Step 4: In 8-ounce jars, spread about 1/4 cup of the pudding mixture at the bottom. Add 3–4 Nilla wafers on top, followed by a few banana slices. Then add another 1/4 cup of pudding. Continue layering with more wafers and bananas if desired. Refrigerate the jars for at least 4 hours.
5. Step 5: Just before serving, whip the remaining whipping cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Dollop this sweetened whipped cream on top of each pudding jar and garnish with 1–2 Nilla wafers.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg between layers.
• Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and sogginess.
• Substitute vanilla wafers with graham crackers or shortbread cookies for a different texture.
• Prepare the pudding mixture a day ahead to enhance flavor depth.

Storage

Store the banana pudding jars covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to keep the bananas fresh. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving to prevent it from becoming watery. Leftovers can be gently stirred and enjoyed promptly, but texture is best on the first day.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade vanilla pudding instead of instant?

Yes, homemade vanilla pudding works well and adds a richer flavor, but be sure it is fully chilled before layering.

Will the bananas brown if I prepare this in advance?

Bananas can brown over time. Using slightly underripe bananas and storing the jars in an airtight container helps slow browning. Adding the whipped cream topping just before serving also helps keep the dessert looking fresh.

Banana Pudding in a Jar Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 85 reviews

• Author: Harry
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This easy and delightful Banana Pudding in a Jar recipe offers a creamy, layered dessert combining instant vanilla pudding, sweetened condensed milk, fresh bananas, and crunchy Nilla Wafers. Perfectly portioned in individual jars, it’s a convenient treat to prepare ahead and impress guests with its delicious homemade taste and charming presentation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pudding Mixture

• 1 (4-serving size) box instant vanilla pudding
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

Fruit & Cookies

• 2–3 ripe bananas, sliced into 1/4 inch slices
• Nilla Wafer cookies (about 12-16 wafers)

Whipped Cream Topping

• 1 pint whipping cream (divided: 1 cup for folding, remaining for topping)
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pudding mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold water, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir well to combine and place the mixture in the refrigerator to chill for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken.
2. Whip and fold cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of the whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture until evenly combined and smooth.
3. Slice bananas: Peel and slice 2-3 ripe bananas into 1/4 inch thick slices, ready for layering in the jars.
4. Layer the pudding jars: In individual 8-ounce jars, spoon 1/4 cup of the pudding mixture into the bottom. Add 3-4 Nilla Wafer cookies on top, followed by a few banana slices. Add another 1/4 cup of pudding over the bananas. Top with more Nilla Wafers and bananas if desired. Place the jars in the refrigerator to set for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Prepare final whipped cream topping: Right before serving, whip the remaining whipping cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Dollop this sweetened whipped cream on top of each jarred pudding.
6. Garnish and serve: Garnish each jar with 1-2 additional Nilla Wafers on top of the whipped cream. Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful layered banana pudding treat.

Notes

• Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
• For added texture, you can lightly crush some Nilla Wafers between layers.
• Make sure not to overmix the whipped cream when folding into pudding to maintain a light texture.
• Individual jars make this dessert perfect for parties and easy portion control.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: banana pudding, instant pudding, layered dessert, no bake dessert, individual servings, Nilla Wafers, whipped cream