Banana Pudding Jars

Banana Pudding Jars are a fun, no-bake dessert made of creamy pudding, sliced bananas, whipped topping, and crushed vanilla wafers—all layered in a cute jar. This treat serves 6 and takes only 15 minutes to prepare.

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💛 Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding Jars Recipe:

No baking needed—great for hot days: Keep your kitchen cool while still making a rich and creamy dessert that everyone will love.
Fun to layer and serve in jars: These individual jars are not only adorable but also practical—easy to serve, easy to store, and perfect for sharing or gifting.
Classic banana pudding flavor in single-serve size: Each jar offers the traditional Southern taste of banana pudding but in a perfectly portioned, portable format.
Quick to prepare, only 15 minutes: This is a time-saving dessert that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s ready in minutes and perfect for last-minute cravings or guests.
Kid-friendly and perfect for parties: Children love the sweet bananas and soft wafers, and the fun jar presentation makes them a hit at birthdays, BBQs, and holiday gatherings.

🍌 Ingredients

2 cups cold milk
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup whipped topping (plus extra for topping)
3 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
Jars or cups for serving

🍮 How To Make Banana Pudding Jars

Make the pudding: In a bowl, whisk the milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes until thick.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently mix 1 cup of whipped topping into the pudding for a light texture.
Layer in jars: Add a layer of crushed wafers, followed by banana slices, then pudding. Repeat layers.
Top and chill: Finish with extra whipped topping and wafer crumbs. Chill for 1–2 hours before serving.

✅ Tips For Success

Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
Make it ahead: These jars taste even better after chilling.
Prevent browning: Lightly brush banana slices with lemon juice.
Add texture: Mix in chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for crunch.
Try variations: Use banana pudding mix or chocolate wafers for a twist.
Make it dairy-free: Use almond milk and a dairy-free whipped topping.
Use mason jars: They’re cute, portable, and reusable.
Serve cold: This dessert is best enjoyed straight from the fridge.

What To Serve With Banana Pudding Jars?

Banana Pudding Jars go great with fresh berries, a drizzle of caramel, iced coffee or light cookies. They also make a perfect sweet touch after a barbecue or summer lunch.

❄️ How To Store Banana Pudding Jars?

In the fridge (Best way): Cover each jar and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It tastes better the next day.
In the freezer (For later): Wrap the jars tightly and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before eating

❓FAQs

Can I make Banana Pudding Jars ahead of time?

Yes, Banana Pudding Jars are perfect for make-ahead desserts. Preparing them 1–2 days in advance actually improves the flavor as the cookies soften and blend with the pudding. Just cover and refrigerate.

Will the bananas turn brown in Banana Pudding Jars?

Bananas in Banana Pudding Jars may brown after a day, which is normal. To slow this, you can brush banana slices with lemon juice before layering. It helps keep the jars fresh and appealing longer.

Can I use homemade pudding for Banana Pudding Jars?

Yes, homemade pudding gives Banana Pudding Jars a richer, more flavorful taste. You can use vanilla, banana, or even chocolate pudding made from scratch to enhance the recipe.

What size jars should I use for Banana Pudding Jars?

For Banana Pudding Jars, 4 oz or 8 oz mason jars work best. They’re ideal for individual servings, easy to handle, and perfect for portion control during parties or gatherings.

Can I make Banana Pudding Jars dairy-free?

Yes, you can make Banana Pudding Jars dairy-free by using plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut, and replacing whipped topping with a dairy-free version like CocoWhip.

Can I use banana pudding mix in Banana Pudding Jars?

Yes, banana pudding mix works great in Banana Pudding Jars. It boosts the banana flavor and makes the dessert even more delicious without adding extra ingredients.

Can I make Banana Pudding Jars in a big bowl instead?

If you don’t have jars, you can make Banana Pudding Jars in a trifle dish or any large bowl. Just layer the same ingredients for a shareable version.

Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping in Banana Pudding Jars?

You can use homemade whipped cream in Banana Pudding Jars. It’s lighter and fresher but should be added closer to serving since it doesn’t hold as long as store-bought topping.

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