Oh, my goodness! If you’re looking for a dessert that will make your heart sing and your taste buds dance, you’ve come to the right place! Today, I’m sharing my delightful Banana Pudding Cake recipe that’s not only easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This cake is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a sweet treat that combines creamy pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers? It’s like a hug in dessert form!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a Banana Pudding Cake Recipe Easy enough for anyone to master!
- Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
- Combines the classic flavors of banana pudding with the moistness of cake.
- Can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinner ideas.
- Kids and adults alike will adore this sweet treat!
Ingredients
Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll need:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers (plus extra for topping)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious cake!
- Prepare and bake the yellow cake mix according to package directions in a 9×13 inch pan. Let it cool completely.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cold milk and banana pudding mix until thickened. Chill for 5 minutes.
- Spread the banana pudding evenly over the cooled cake. Press sliced bananas gently into the pudding layer.
- Spread whipped topping over the pudding and banana layers to cover completely.
- Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Banana Pudding Cake turns out perfectly:
- Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding mix.
- If you want to get creative, try adding a layer of Custard Banana Pudding for a richer taste.
- Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- For a fun twist, you can use this recipe as a base for a Banana Bread Pudding Cake by adding some bread cubes into the mix!
How to Serve
When it comes to serving this delightful cake, the options are endless! Here are a few ideas:
- Serve it chilled straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
- Top with additional sliced bananas or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
- Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
- For a fun twist, try it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Banana Pudding Cake is perfect for making ahead of time! Here’s how to store it:
- Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you want to make it even earlier, you can prepare the cake and pudding layers separately and assemble them the day you plan to serve.
- For best results, avoid adding the crushed vanilla wafers until just before serving to keep them crunchy.
So there you have it! A delicious, easy-to-make Banana Pudding Cake that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat after one of your quick family dinners or a dessert to impress at your next gathering, this cake is the answer. I can’t wait for you to try it! Happy baking!
Banana Pudding Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare and bake the yellow cake according to package instructions in a 9x13 inch pan. Let cool.
- Whisk cold milk and banana pudding mix until thickened; chill for 5 minutes.
- Spread pudding over cooled cake, then press sliced bananas into the pudding.
- Spread whipped topping over the pudding and bananas, then sprinkle crushed wafers on top.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.