This Banana Pudding Trifle is a pretty way to display classic banana pudding. It consists of (instant) creamy banana pudding, fluffy cheesecake whipped cream, fresh banana slices, and classic Nilla Wafers, layered together in a glass trifle dish. A glass bowl works fine too. Using glass for this dessert is a lovely way to see all of the layers.

I first had banana pudding several years ago when I was in the heart of the south (Savannah, Georgia) doing a project with Paula Deen. She’s always been the queen of these kinds of traditional southern desserts, and sure enough… banana pudding appeared on the table after a hearty dinner of shrimp and grits. I believe there was a key lime pie too!

Southerners really know how to make great comfort food (especially dessert). And that trip to Georgia is when I fell in love with banana pudding. It’s crazy that I haven’t shared a recipe for this decadent dessert until now. I make a lot of no bake desserts (Oreo pie, cheesecake and cookies). But I had tucked away this no bake banana pudding trifle recipe to share at some point. That time is now! I hope you enjoy this easy-to-make, impressive looking, make-ahead dessert as much as I do.

ingredients displayed for making banana pudding trifle

What Makes This Trifle Extra Special?

This isn’t just banana pudding and whipped cream. The secret is the totally decadent cheesecake-style whipped cream layer. Cream cheese adds a subtle tang and richness that balances the sweetness of the pudding and bananas perfectly. If you’re a cheesecake lover, you’re going to love this!

How to Make Banana Pudding Trifle

Step 1: Make the Banana Pudding Layer. Whisk together cold milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and instant banana pudding until thick and smooth. Refrigerate while you prepare the rest of the layers.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Whipped Cream. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar and vanilla. Add heavy whipping cream and beat with an electric mixer until thick, fluffy, and spreadable. Chill until ready to assemble.
Step 3: Assemble the Trifle. Layer Nilla wafers in the bottom of a trifle dish, followed by sliced bananas, half of the pudding, and half of the whipped cream. Repeat the layers once more. Finish with banana slices and Nilla wafers (whole or crushed) on top.
Step 4: Chill. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving so the flavors meld and the layers set.

Recipe Tips

Use ripe but firm bananas. If they are too soft, they’ll brown quickly.
Assemble your trifle close to serving time if you want the bananas looking extra fresh.
Place plastic wrap tightly over the top, and chill thoroughly. This helps the layers hold together beautifully.
Use instant pudding- not “cook and serve.”
A glass bowl will work just fine if you don’t have a trifle dish.
Leftovers keep well for 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator (if there are any!).

This dessert is perfect for bringing to a potluck or BBQ. Any time you need a guaranteed crowd pleaser, this is the dessert to bring. It’s the perfect dessert for holidays. And it’s the perfect finish to a family dinner because everyone will enjoy it!

This Southern-Style Banana Pudding Trifle is one of those desserts that never goes out of style. Would you believe that this dessert has been a Southern staple since the 1920’s when Nabisco introduced vanilla wafers? It’s creamy, comforting, easy to make, and always a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because you’re craving a classic dessert, this trifle is guaranteed to be loved.