The Ultimate Banana Pudding Cake: A Slice of Southern Comfort!

There’s something truly magical about classic desserts, isn’t there? They whisk us back to childhood, to family gatherings, and to the sweet, simple joys of life. Today, we’re diving headfirst into a dessert that does all that and more: the utterly irresistible Banana Pudding Cake! This isn’t just a cake; it’s a nostalgic hug, a melody of creamy, dreamy banana pudding layered with soft vanilla cake and crisp vanilla wafers, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will have everyone reaching for a second slice. Forget everything you thought you knew about dessert, because this recipe takes the beloved Southern Banana Pudding and elevates it into a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing cake that’s surprisingly simple to make. Get ready to bake, chill, and delight!

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📸 1100+ photo shares | ☀️ Updated December 2025

 

What is Banana Pudding Cake?

At its heart, this is a beautiful marriage of two beloved desserts: moist, tender yellow cake and classic banana pudding. Imagine a fluffy cake base, topped with a creamy vanilla pudding infused with ripe bananas, layered with softened vanilla wafers, and crowned with a luscious whipped topping. Each forkful delivers that signature banana pudding flavor, but with the added joy of a light, airy cake underneath. It’s the best of both worlds, making it perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding Cake Recipe

Pure Comfort: It’s a dessert that instantly makes you feel at home, evoking memories of grandma’s kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Seriously, who doesn’t love banana pudding? And in cake form? It’s universally adored!
Surprisingly Easy: With a box cake mix and instant pudding, assembly is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake actually improves with a little chilling time, making it perfect for planning ahead.
Texture Heaven: Soft cake, creamy pudding, tender bananas, and slightly yielding wafers – a textural masterpiece!

What You’ll Need for Banana Pudding Cake

 

Ingredients:

1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box: eggs, oil, water)
2 (3.4 ounce) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
4 cups cold milk (whole or 2%)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (11 ounce) box vanilla wafers

How to Make Banana Pudding Cake

Instructions:

1. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven and prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake as directed until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial for proper layering!
2. Whip Up the Pudding: While the cake cools, combine the instant vanilla pudding mixes with the cold milk and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 5 minutes to set further.
3. First Layer of Goodness: Once your cake is fully cooled, spread about a third of the thawed whipped topping evenly over the entire surface of the cake.
4. Banana Bonanza: Arrange a single layer of freshly sliced bananas over the whipped topping. Don’t be shy with the bananas – they are the star of this Banana Pudding Cake!
5. Pudding Perfection: Carefully pour and spread the prepared vanilla pudding mixture evenly over the banana layer.
6. Wafer Wonderland: Now, cover the pudding layer with a generous blanket of vanilla wafers. You can arrange them neatly or just sprinkle them over – they’ll soften beautifully. This is a hallmark of truly authentic Southern Banana Pudding, after all!
7. Final Flourish: Gently spread the remaining whipped topping over the vanilla wafers, making sure to cover them completely.
8. Garnish & Chill: For an extra touch, garnish the top with a few whole vanilla wafers and a few fresh banana slices. Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or even better, overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften to that perfect tender consistency.
9. Serve & Enjoy: Slice and serve your masterpiece! Prepare for smiles and requests for the recipe.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

Twists:

Caramel Drizzle: Add a generous drizzle of caramel sauce over the pudding layer or on top for an extra layer of sweetness.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap out vanilla wafers for chocolate wafers or add a scattering of mini chocolate chips.
Homemade Touch: For a truly gourmet experience, use your favorite homemade vanilla custard instead of instant pudding.
Spiced Cake: Try a spice cake mix instead of yellow for a warming, autumnal twist.
Individual Servings: Make mini versions in ramekins or jars by layering crumbled cake, pudding, bananas, and wafers.

Serving Suggestions:

This cake is perfect on its own, but a light dusting of cinnamon or a small dollop of extra whipped cream never hurt anyone! It’s fantastic for parties, potlucks, or simply as a comforting dessert after a family meal.

Your Top Questions Answered (FAQs)

Q: Can I use homemade pudding?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer, a homemade vanilla custard or pudding can be substituted for the instant mix. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before assembling.

Q: How long does Banana Pudding Cake last?
A: It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days, stored covered in the refrigerator. The bananas may start to brown after that, though they’ll still be tasty.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, it’s actually better made a day ahead to allow the wafers to soften and flavors to fully develop. This makes it perfect for entertaining!

Q: What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch pan?
A: You can use two 8-inch round pans, splitting the cake layers horizontally for assembly, or adjust to a similar sized pan. Just keep an eye on baking times.

What Our Fans Are Saying

• “Absolutely divine! This Banana Pudding Cake is a new family favorite. So easy and incredibly delicious. The vanilla wafers soften perfectly!” – Sarah J. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• “I made this for a potluck and it was devoured! Everyone asked for the recipe. It truly tastes like a classic Southern Banana Pudding but in cake form. Genius!” – Mark T. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• “Simple ingredients, amazing results. The chilling time is crucial, don’t skip it! This cake always brings smiles and is a go-to for any gathering.” – Emily R. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

There you have it – the ultimate Banana Pudding Cake recipe! This dessert is more than just a sweet treat; it’s an experience, a slice of joy that brings people together. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is forgiving, fun, and guaranteed to be a hit. So go on, whip up this glorious dessert, embrace the magic of Southern Banana Pudding in its most magnificent form, and watch those happy faces light up! Happy baking!

Recipe Note: Always use ripe, but not overly mushy, bananas for the best flavor and texture in this cake.