If you’re looking for a decadent and easy dessert to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth, look no further than this Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle! Layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and fluffy whipped cream come together in a beautiful glass trifle dish. This classic dessert is both comforting and indulgent, making it perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or just a treat for yourself. The combination of soft bananas, silky pudding, and a hint of vanilla is a crowd-pleaser that’s as delicious as it is stunning!
Ingredients:
- For the Vanilla Pudding:
- 1 (5.1 oz) package of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Trifle Layers:
- 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (12 oz) container of whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 1 (14 oz) box of vanilla wafer cookies (or your preferred cookie)
- 1/4 cup of milk (for soaking cookies)
- For Garnish:
- Extra whipped cream
- Crushed vanilla wafers
- Sliced bananas
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vanilla Pudding:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Stir in the vanilla extract. Set the pudding aside to firm up for about 5 minutes.
- Soak the Cookies:
- Pour 1/4 cup of milk into a shallow bowl. Lightly dip the vanilla wafer cookies into the milk, making sure they don’t get too soggy. Lay the cookies at the bottom of your trifle dish, forming the first layer.
- Assemble the Trifle:
- Start layering the trifle: first, add a layer of the soaked vanilla wafers at the bottom of the dish.
- Then add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a layer of vanilla pudding.
- Repeat these layers—cookies, bananas, and pudding—until the dish is filled, finishing with a top layer of vanilla pudding.
- Top with Whipped Cream:
- Spread a generous layer of whipped topping over the pudding layer. Smooth it out for an even finish.
- Garnish:
- Decorate the top of your trifle with extra banana slices, crushed vanilla wafers, and a few dollops of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to let the flavors meld together and for the dessert to firm up.
- Serve:
- When ready to serve, scoop out portions into bowls or serve directly from the trifle dish for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy your creamy, dreamy Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle!
Tips:
- You can make this trifle a day ahead to allow the flavors to blend even better.
- If you’d like a bit of crunch, you can add a layer of crushed graham crackers or nuts in between the pudding layers for a different texture.
- For a richer flavor, you can make homemade vanilla pudding instead of using the instant mix.
This simple yet delicious trifle is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
