Why You’ll LoveCopycat Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe

You get that signature Magnolia Bakery taste without waiting in line.
It’s mostly no‑cook (thanks to instant pudding), but tastes rich and indulgent.
You can prepare it ahead of time, making it ideal for parties or gatherings.
The layers of wafers, bananas, and creamy filling give a delightful contrast of textures.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (14‑oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup very cold milk
½ cup very cold water
1 (3.4‑oz) box instant vanilla pudding
1 (11‑12 oz) box of vanilla wafers (reserve 5–6 wafers and crumbs)
3 cups heavy whipping cream
½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring
5 bananas (just barely ripe), sliced

Directions

In a bowl (or mixer), combine sweetened condensed milk, cold water, and cold milk. Mix on low‑medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes.
Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and beat on medium for 2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken.
Cover the pudding base and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let it fully set.
In a separate bowl (or using the mixer), whip the heavy cream with the vanilla flavoring until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture until uniform, with no visible streaks.
For assembly:
a. Line the bottom of a large trifle bowl (or wide glass bowl) with about one‑third of the vanilla wafers.
b. Arrange 1½ cups of sliced bananas over the wafers.
c. Top with one‑third of the pudding mixture.
d. Repeat twice more to create three layers of wafers, bananas, and pudding.
Crush the reserved 5–6 wafers and sprinkle them on top of the final layer for garnish.
Cover, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (longer is fine) before serving.

Servings and timing

Yields: 16 servings
Prep time: ~15 minutes
Chill time: ~4 hours
Total time: ~4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Replace vanilla wafers with shortbread cookies or graham crackers for a different flavor/twist.
Mix in a bit of banana liqueur (for adult servings) or a tiny splash of rum extract into the pudding for extra flavor.
Add a layer of sliced strawberries or berries for a fruity twist.
Swirl in a bit of chocolate pudding on alternate layers to make a chocolate‑banana version.
Top with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bananas may brown slightly, so it’s best served within the same day.
Freezing: Not recommended. The wafers will become soggy and the bananas may lose texture when thawed.

FAQs

What kind of pudding mix should I use?

Use instant vanilla pudding mix (not cook‑and‑serve). The instant kind helps ensure a creamy, set texture without additional cooking.

Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of clear vanilla flavoring?

Yes — regular vanilla extract works well if you don’t have clear vanilla flavoring.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Use bananas that are just barely ripe, with yellow skin and light speckles. Avoid overly mushy bananas, as they may turn brown quickly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. In fact, it’s better made ahead so the wafers can soften slightly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

How can I prevent bananas from browning?

You can coat banana slices in lemon juice or lime juice before layering. Some suggest rinsing with club soda (gently) to slow browning.

Can I cut this recipe in half?

Yes — you may halve all ingredients and use a smaller dish. The proportions remain the same.

Can I make individual servings?

Certainly. Use small ramekins, trifle glasses, or dessert cups and layer the same proportions.

How long will leftovers last?

Best eaten the same day. If stored, consuming within 12 hours is ideal before the bananas and wafers degrade.

Can I add extra sweetness?

This recipe is already sweet from the condensed milk and pudding mix. If needed, you could lightly sweeten whipped cream, but be cautious not to overdo it.

Why does the pudding need cold milk and cold water?

Cold liquids help the instant pudding set properly and yield a smoother, firmer texture.

Conclusion

This Copycat Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding brings the beloved dessert straight into your kitchen, capturing all the creamy, nostalgic goodness of the original. With mostly no‑cook steps and make‑ahead convenience, it’s a dessert that shines at parties, gatherings, or anytime you want a comforting, layered treat. Serve chilled, enjoy the blend of textures, and watch how quickly it disappears!