Paula Deen’s “Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding” is a rich, creamy, and indulgent twist on the classic Southern dessert. It’s got layers of vanilla pudding, bananas, and buttery Nilla wafers, topped with a luscious whipped topping that makes it impossible to resist.
Here’s a version inspired by Paula Deen’s style:
🍌 Paula Deen’s Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding
🕒 Prep: 20 min | Chill: 2+ hours
🍽️ Serves: 8–10
🧂 Ingredients
-
1 box (5.1 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
-
2 cups cold milk
-
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
-
1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
-
1 (12 oz) box Nilla wafers
-
5–6 ripe bananas, sliced
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or toasted coconut for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
-
Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
-
Gently fold in half of the whipped topping.
-
In a large trifle dish or 9×13 pan, layer as follows:
-
A single layer of Nilla wafers
-
A layer of banana slices
-
A layer of pudding mixture
-
-
Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
-
Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the top.
-
Garnish with crushed wafers, chopped pecans, or toasted coconut if desired.
-
Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving (overnight is even better!).
Tips
-
Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness.
-
For extra decadence, drizzle caramel sauce between layers.
-
For a boozy twist, add a splash of banana liqueur or rum to the pudding mix.
Want the original Paula Deen recipe text or a lighter version next?