Imagine the rich, caramelized magic of classic Bananas Foster meeting the cool, creamy comfort of banana pudding. Banana’s Foster Banana Pudding is the ultimate dessert fusion—simple enough for a weeknight treat, yet fancy enough to wow at your next gathering. With layers of buttery bananas, vanilla wafers, and a lush pudding, all kissed with a hint of rum and brown sugar, this dish is a total showstopper. Plus, no baking required! Whether you’re serving it in a trifle bowl or cute little jars, this sweet Southern-inspired dessert is bound to be your new favorite.
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Why You’ll Love Banana’s Foster Banana Pudding
This isn’t your average banana pudding—it’s got flair! The Bananas Foster twist brings a warm, caramelized flavor that takes everything up a notch. It’s super easy to put together (hello, no-bake!), but tastes like something you’d get from a fancy dessert bar. The textures are dreamy too: creamy pudding, soft bananas, and that signature Nilla wafer crunch. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a potluck, or just because you need something sweet STAT, this pudding is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients with a little extra flair to give it that Bananas Foster twist. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Bananas Foster:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon dark rum (or 1/2 tsp rum extract for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
For Layering:
- 1 box vanilla wafer cookies (Nilla Wafers are perfect)
- Extra banana slices for layering (1-2 bananas)
Instructions
This dreamy dessert comes together in layers and is super beginner-friendly. Here’s how to make your Banana’s Foster Banana Pudding step by step:

Step 1: Make the Bananas Foster
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until combined and bubbly.
- Add banana slices and cook for 1–2 minutes until softened and caramelized.
- Stir in rum (or rum extract) and vanilla, cook for another 30 seconds.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pudding
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Fold in the whipped topping and sour cream (if using) until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- In a large trifle dish or 9×13 pan, start with a layer of vanilla wafers.
- Spoon on a layer of pudding.
- Add a few fresh banana slices.
- Spoon some of the cooled Bananas Foster mixture over the top.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding and a few decorative bananas or crushed wafers on top.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best!) to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the rave reviews!
Servings and Timing
This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd—or treating yourself all week long. It’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly low effort for how indulgent it tastes.
- Servings: About 10–12 generous servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time (Bananas Foster): 5 minutes
- Chill Time: At least 2 hours (overnight is ideal for best texture and flavor)
This pudding is make-ahead friendly, so you can prep it the night before and simply pull it out when you’re ready to wow your guests (or your sweet tooth).
Tips and Variations
This recipe is super customizable—here are some fun twists and helpful tips to make it your own:
Tips:
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor. Spotty is perfect!
- Let the Bananas Foster mixture cool slightly before layering so it doesn’t melt the pudding.
- Chill overnight if possible—the flavors get even better with time.
Variations:
- Boozy version: Add a splash more rum to the Bananas Foster for an adults-only dessert.
- Kid-friendly version: Use rum extract instead of dark rum, or skip it altogether.
- Cookie swap: Try graham crackers or shortbread cookies instead of vanilla wafers.
- Extra texture: Add chopped toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce between layers.
- Individual servings: Layer everything in mason jars or cups for party-perfect presentation.
Storage
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This pudding keeps well and is just as delicious (if not more) the next day.
- Fridge: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Tip: If you’re making it ahead, add fresh banana slices just before serving to prevent browning.
- Freezing: Not recommended—freezing changes the texture of both the pudding and the bananas.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better when made ahead. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the wafers soften.
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade vanilla pudding recipe, go for it—just let it cool completely before assembling.
What if I don’t have rum or rum extract?
No worries! You can skip it or substitute with a splash of vanilla or maple extract for a cozy flavor.
How do I keep the bananas from browning?
Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering, or wait to add fresh slices until just before serving.
Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes! Use about 2 cups of freshly whipped cream (sweetened) in place of the whipped topping.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yep! Just swap the vanilla wafers for your favorite gluten-free cookie alternative.
What’s the difference between this and regular banana pudding?
This version has a caramelized, buttery twist thanks to the Bananas Foster topping—it’s richer, warmer, and feels a bit more special.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both nostalgic and next-level, Banana’s Foster Banana Pudding is it. It takes the classic comfort of banana pudding and gives it a rich, caramel-kissed upgrade that’s hard to resist. It’s quick, no-fuss, and guaranteed to impress—whether you’re serving it in a big trifle dish or cute little jars for a party.
Craving more tasty recipes? Follow @butteryrecipes on Pinterest and Facebook for daily inspiration!
You Might Also Like These Recipe
- Love banana pudding? Don’t miss these dreamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares for another banana-packed delight!
- For a fruity twist, check out this vibrant Banana Strawberry Cheesecake Fantasy!
- If caramelized fruit is your thing, you’ll love this warm, Southern-inspired Peach Crumb Cheesecake.

Banana’s Foster Banana Pudding Recipe
Imagine the rich, caramelized magic of classic Bananas Foster meeting the cool, creamy comfort of banana pudding. Banana’s Foster Banana Pudding is the ultimate dessert fusion—simple enough for a weeknight treat, yet fancy enough to wow at your next gathering.
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon dark rum (or 1/2 tsp rum extract for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1 box vanilla wafer cookies
- Extra banana slices for layering (1–2 bananas)
Instructions
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until combined and bubbly.
- Add banana slices and cook for 1–2 minutes until softened and caramelized.
- Stir in rum (or rum extract) and vanilla, cook for another 30 seconds.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Fold in the whipped topping and sour cream (if using) until smooth and fluffy.
- In a large trifle dish or 9×13 pan, start with a layer of vanilla wafers.
- Spoon on a layer of pudding.
- Add a few fresh banana slices.
- Spoon some of the cooled Bananas Foster mixture over the top.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding and a few decorative bananas or crushed wafers on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best!)
Notes
Use ripe bananas for best flavor. Chill overnight if possible. Try it in mason jars for cute single servings. Not freezer friendly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: banana pudding, bananas foster, no bake dessert, trifle, Southern dessert
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