If you’re looking for a classic, crowd-pleasing dessert, look no further than Banana Pudding Cups. These mini desserts combine creamy banana pudding, fresh banana slices, and crunchy cookies layered into individual jars or cups. Perfect for family dinners, backyard BBQs, graduations, bridal showers, and picnics, they’re both elegant and approachable.
What makes these banana pudding cups truly special is their make-ahead convenience. You can assemble them in advance, refrigerate, and simply decorate before serving, making them ideal for busy hosts. With each layer of pudding, banana, cookie, and whipped topping, every bite delivers rich, creamy, and nostalgic flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Banana Pudding Cups
For 9 servings, you will need:
- 1 (5.1 oz.) box banana instant pudding mix – provides the classic banana flavor and creamy texture.
- 2 1/2 cups cold whole milk – helps set the pudding properly.
- 1 tablespoon homemade vanilla extract – adds depth and enhances the banana flavor.
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk – sweetens and enriches the pudding.
- 2 (8 oz.) tubs Cool Whip, thawed – one tub for mixing, one for layering and topping.
- 4 bananas – sliced into 1/4-inch rounds for the fruit layer.
- 18 shortbread cookies (or Nilla Wafers) – form the crunchy base.
- Optional: extra shortbread cookies and banana slices for garnish.
Tips and Substitutions:
- Swap Nilla Wafers for Dublin shortbread cookies if making ahead to maintain firmness.
- Vanilla instant pudding can be used if banana instant pudding is unavailable.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and whipped topping alternatives.
How to Make Banana Pudding Cups
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding
In a large mixing bowl, combine banana instant pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until thickened and smooth.
Step 2: Sweeten and Enrich
Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated. This step adds richness and ensures a creamy texture.
Step 3: Fold in Whipped Topping
Add one tub of thawed Cool Whip to the pudding mixture and fold gently until fully combined. Reserve the second tub for layering and decorating the tops.
Step 4: Slice the Bananas
Slice bananas into 1/4-inch rounds. Use bananas that are ripe but not overripe to avoid browning too quickly.
Step 5: Assemble the Cups
Set up an assembly line with jars or cups. Start with a cookie layer at the bottom of each cup. Add a layer of banana slices, then spoon in a layer of pudding, making sure to cover the bananas completely. Top with a dollop of Cool Whip. Repeat the layers until the cup is full.
Step 6: Decorate and Chill
If serving immediately, add a shortbread cookie and a few banana slices on top. If serving later, leave the final dollop of whipped topping off and decorate just before serving. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in individual jars or cups for easy portioning.
- Garnish with extra shortbread cookies, banana slices, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive look.
- Pair with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate for added flavor and presentation.
- Perfect for picnics, parties, or casual gatherings, as guests can grab their own serving.
Storage Tips
- Store completed banana pudding cups in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
- Decorate just before serving to maintain the fresh appearance of bananas and whipped topping.
- Use wide-mouth jars with air-tight lids for easy stacking, storage, and transport.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Pudding Cups
- Protect the banana slices: Ensure bananas are fully covered by pudding to prevent browning.
- Choose the right cookies: Shortbread cookies hold up better than Nilla Wafers if storing in advance.
- Allow dessert to set: Let the cups chill for at least 1 hour for best texture.
- Use ripe bananas: Avoid overripe bananas, which brown quickly and may affect texture.
- Assemble efficiently: Set up an assembly line for easy layering and faster prep.
Variations
- Chocolate Banana Pudding Cups: Add a layer of chocolate pudding or chocolate chips.
- Tropical Banana Cups: Include diced mango or pineapple along with the bananas.
- Mini Parfaits: Use smaller jars for bite-sized dessert portions.
- Caramel Banana Pudding: Drizzle caramel sauce between the layers for extra sweetness.
FAQs
Can I make these banana pudding cups ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble most of the layers in advance. Store in airtight containers and add the final whipped topping and garnishes just before serving.
What cookies work best for make-ahead cups?
Dublin shortbread cookies are ideal as they maintain firmness. Nilla Wafers may become too soft if stored for more than a few hours.
Can I use vanilla pudding instead of banana?
Yes, use vanilla instant pudding and add fresh banana slices for flavor.
How long will these dessert cups last?
Store in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Decorate just before serving to keep the bananas fresh.
