Magnolia Banana Pudding Recipe (with Video)

Magnolia Banana Pudding Recipe: If you’ve ever been to Magnolia Bakery, you know that their banana pudding is one of their most famous and beloved desserts. It’s light, fluffy, creamy, and packed with layers of fresh bananas, vanilla wafers, and pudding. The good news? You don’t need to visit the bakery to enjoy this decadent treat—you can make it at home!

This copycat Magnolia Banana Pudding recipe is easy to follow and will give you the same rich and creamy texture that makes the original so irresistible. Follow this step-by-step guide, and in a few hours, you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make Magnolia Bakery’s famous banana pudding at home:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 ½ cups ice-cold water
• 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 (12-ounce) box Nilla Wafers (or any vanilla wafer cookies)
• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for extra flavor)
• Cocoa powder or crushed nuts (for garnish)

Ingredient Substitutes:

• Instead of Nilla Wafers, you can use graham crackers, ladyfingers, or shortbread cookies.
• Instead of instant vanilla pudding mix, you can use homemade vanilla pudding, but it will take longer to prepare.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Magnolia Banana Pudding

Step 1: Preparing the Pudding Base

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and ice-cold water until smooth.
2. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk thoroughly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until it thickens.

Pro Tip: Chilling the pudding base is crucial—it ensures the right consistency and prevents it from being runny!

Step 2: Whipping the Cream

1. In another large mixing bowl, add heavy whipping cream.
2. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the cream until stiff peaks form (about 3-5 minutes).
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture. Be careful not to overmix—you want it to stay light and fluffy!

Step 3: Assembling the Layers

1. In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, start by layering Nilla Wafers at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the cookies.
3. Spread a generous layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
4. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, ending with a pudding layer on top.
5. Crumble some extra Nilla Wafers on top for garnish.

Step 4: Chilling the Pudding

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.

Why Chill? The cookies absorb the moisture, becoming soft and cake-like, making the pudding even more delicious!

Tips for the Best Banana Pudding

• Use ripe bananas – They should be yellow with brown specks for the best flavor.
• Whip the cream until stiff peaks form – This ensures a light and fluffy texture.
• Layer evenly – Distribute bananas, cookies, and pudding evenly for a balanced bite.
• Chill for at least 4 hours – This allows the flavors to develop and the cookies to soften.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

• Individual Servings – Assemble in small jars or cups for easy serving.
• Chocolate Banana Pudding – Add a layer of chocolate chips or cocoa powder.
• Nutty Crunch – Top with chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using unripe bananas – They won’t be sweet enough.
❌ Skipping the chilling step – The flavors won’t meld properly.
❌ Overwhipping the cream – It can turn grainy instead of smooth.
❌ Not eating it soon enough – It’s best enjoyed within 48 hours before the bananas turn brown.

FAQs about Magnolia Banana Pudding Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for Magnolia Banana Pudding?

To make Magnolia Banana Pudding, you will need ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, vanilla pudding mix, sweetened condensed milk, cold water, and heavy cream.

2. How long does it take to make Magnolia Banana Pudding?

The total preparation and assembly time for Magnolia Banana Pudding is about 30 minutes. However, you should also allow for at least 4 hours of refrigeration time before serving to ensure the pudding sets properly.

3. Can I make Magnolia Banana Pudding ahead of time?

Yes, Magnolia Banana Pudding is a great make-ahead dessert. It can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the wafers to soften, enhancing the overall taste.

4. What is the best way to layer the ingredients in Magnolia Banana Pudding?

Start with a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, and then a layer of pudding. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of pudding on top. Optionally, you can garnish with additional banana slices or crumbled wafers just before serving.

5. How can I keep the bananas from browning in the pudding?

To prevent the bananas from browning, you can toss them lightly in lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering them into the pudding. This will not affect the flavor significantly and will help maintain their fresh appearance.

6. Is there a dairy-free version of Magnolia Banana Pudding?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the pudding mix with a dairy-free alternative, use a plant-based milk instead of condensed milk, and a dairy-free whipped topping instead of heavy cream. Ensure all ingredients are labeled dairy-free.

7. Can I freeze Magnolia Banana Pudding?

It is not recommended to freeze Magnolia Banana Pudding as the texture of the bananas and the cream may become grainy and watery upon thawing. For best results, enjoy the pudding fresh or refrigerate as suggested.

Conclusion

Magnolia Bakery’s banana pudding is a legendary dessert, and now you can enjoy it at home! With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this pudding is a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!