If you’re looking for a show-stopper of a no-bake dessert that delivers creamy layers, tropical flavor, and plenty of swoon-worthy nostalgia, Banana Pudding Lush is your new best friend. Imagine a buttery vanilla wafer base, a tangy cloud of sweetened cream cheese and whipped topping, luscious banana pudding, all crowned with fresh banana slices and even more fluffy whipped topping. This Southern-inspired treat is cool, comforting, and beautiful enough for Sunday suppers, potlucks, or any night you crave something special. Banana Pudding Lush has all the cozy charm of grandma’s original, but with a chilled, crowd-pleasing twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, every bite of this Banana Pudding Lush bursts with flavor and texture. Each element gets its moment to shine, layering together for that irresistible, dreamy dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
- Crushed vanilla wafer cookies: These create the classic, cookie-rich foundation and offer a nostalgic crunch that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Melted butter is the magic that binds your crust together, giving it a rich, toasty flavor.
- Cream cheese, softened: Softened cream cheese is key for whipping up a silky, tangy middle layer you can spread with ease.
- Powdered sugar: This sweetens the cream cheese perfectly without any grittiness for a smooth, luxurious texture.
- Whipped topping (divided): Fluffy and light, whipped topping adds airiness and brings all the creamy layers together.
- Instant banana pudding mix: Nothing beats that old-school banana flavor; instant mix is quick, easy, and foolproof for lush, pudding-rich layers.
- Cold milk: Cold milk helps the pudding set up creamy and thick in minutes without any heat.
- Ripe bananas, sliced: Fresh banana slices bring bright, fruity flavor, pretty layers, and that unmistakable banana-pudding appeal.
- Additional vanilla wafers & banana slices (optional): These are perfect for garnishing the top and adding even more texture and visual flair to your Banana Pudding Lush.
How to Make Banana Pudding Lush
Step 1: Build the Vanilla Wafer Crust
Start by combining the crushed vanilla wafer cookies and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until all the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble delicious, golden sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish, making sure to compact it well so your crust holds together. Pop the dish in the refrigerator while you work on the next layers, giving your crust time to set up and chill.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a fresh bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is creamy and lump-free. Fold in half of the whipped topping and mix gently so it stays extra light and fluffy. Once it looks cloud-like, carefully spread this luscious layer over the cold crust, making sure you get it to every corner for maximum creaminess in every bite.
Step 3: Make the Banana Pudding Magic
Now for the star — whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 or 3 minutes. This layer should be silky and fully set before spreading it over the cream cheese layer in your dish. The pudding nestles into the cream cheese base, adding that unmistakable banana flavor Banana Pudding Lush is known for.
Step 4: Banana Slices Galore
Peel and slice your fresh, ripe bananas, then scatter them in an even layer on top of the pudding. To keep your bananas from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice first. The sweet, soft bananas add bursts of natural fruit flavor and make each slice beautifully layered.
Step 5: The Final Fluffy Top
Gently spread the remaining whipped topping over the banana layer, creating soft swoops or a smooth finish—either way, it feels festive. For the prettiest presentation, garnish with extra vanilla wafer crumbs and more banana slices just before serving. Let your Banana Pudding Lush chill in the refrigerator for at least 3–4 hours (overnight is even better) so all the flavors marry and the layers firm up perfectly for slicing.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Lush
Garnishes
For the ultimate Banana Pudding Lush experience, top your dessert with additional banana slices and a shower of crushed vanilla wafers just before serving. If you want added flair, sprinkle on a few chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for crunch or drizzle some caramel sauce over each square for a decadent touch.
Side Dishes
For casual gatherings, keep it classic with iced tea or coffee on the side—the creamy sweetness of Banana Pudding Lush pairs fantastically with a hot or cold sip. Want to take things up a notch? A few fresh berries or a handful of salty pecans on the plate bring fun contrast and a pop of color.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Banana Pudding Lush in mini dessert cups or mason jars for adorable, single-serve treats that look fancy at picnics or parties. You can also layer it in a trifle bowl for a dramatic, show-off centerpiece that lets those beautiful stripes shine. A sprinkle of edible gold flakes or a fancy dollop of whipped cream can transform this homey dessert into a celebration-worthy finale.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Banana Pudding Lush at its dreamy best, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, but be aware the banana slices may brown a bit after the first day. If you anticipate leftovers, you can always add fresh banana slices to each serving instead of the whole dish.
Freezing
While some folks do freeze Banana Pudding Lush, keep in mind the texture may change—banana slices can turn mushy and the whipped topping can separate when thawed. If you want to prep ahead, freeze the dessert without bananas and fresh toppings, then add those elements just before serving for the best flavor and appearance.
Reheating
This is a chilled dessert, so reheating isn’t needed! Serve Banana Pudding Lush straight from the refrigerator for that cool, creamy bite that makes it so irresistible. If it’s been in the freezer, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?
Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream will make the banana pudding lush even lighter and more luxurious. Just whip heavy cream with a touch of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form and swap it 1:1 for the whipped topping in the recipe.
Will this work with other pudding flavors?
Yes, you can absolutely get creative. While banana pudding mix is classic and gives that signature Banana Pudding Lush flavor, vanilla, cheesecake, or even coconut pudding can add a fun twist while pairing perfectly with the bananas and cookies.
How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?
Toss your banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering them in your lush. This simple trick helps keep them looking fresh and bright, even after chilling in the fridge.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
You sure can! Just use a 9×13-inch pan and double every ingredient—Banana Pudding Lush is fantastic for potlucks, picnics, and family reunions.
Is Banana Pudding Lush gluten-free?
As written, it isn’t because vanilla wafers usually contain wheat. However, you can easily swap in gluten-free vanilla cookies and make sure your pudding mix is certified gluten-free to adapt this lush for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Final Thoughts
Nothing brings out smiles quite like a big pan of Banana Pudding Lush—whether you’re serving it at a family get-together, a special celebration, or just a regular Tuesday night at home. Once you taste those creamy, dreamy layers, you’ll see why this has become an instant classic in so many kitchens. So go ahead, whip it up and delight in every chilled, nostalgic spoonful!
Print
Banana Pudding Lush Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Banana Pudding Lush is a delightful no-bake dessert with layers of vanilla wafer crust, creamy filling, banana pudding, fresh bananas, and whipped topping. It’s a perfect sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, divided
Banana Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 2–3 ripe bananas, sliced
Topping:
- Additional vanilla wafers and banana slices (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix crushed vanilla wafers and melted butter, press into dish, and chill.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar, fold in half of whipped topping, spread over crust.
- Prepare Banana Pudding: Whisk pudding mix and milk until thickened, spread over cream cheese layer, add sliced bananas.
- Finish the Layers: Spread remaining whipped topping over bananas, chill for 3-4 hours.
- Serve: Garnish with extra banana slices and crushed wafers.
Notes
- To prevent browning, toss banana slices in lemon juice.
- For extra texture, add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips as toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
