Intro

If you’ve ever picked up a container of Publix Banana Pudding, you already know why it has a cult following. It’s rich, ultra-creamy, perfectly sweet, and layered with soft bananas and vanilla wafers that practically melt into the pudding. The good news? You don’t need to live near a Publix store to enjoy it anymore.

This Publix Banana Pudding recipe recreates that iconic grocery store favorite right at home. It’s simple, nostalgic, and guaranteed to disappear fast at potlucks, holidays, or family dinners. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, this homemade version delivers that same comforting Southern flavor—no deli counter required.

Why This Publix Banana Pudding Recipe Works

What makes Publix banana pudding so special isn’t anything fancy—it’s the balance. The pudding is silky without being heavy, the bananas stay fresh and sweet, and the wafers soften just enough to create that signature cake-like texture.

This recipe stays true to that formula by using:

Instant vanilla pudding for consistency and ease
Sweetened condensed milk for richness
Whipped topping to keep the pudding light
Fresh ripe bananas for natural sweetness
Classic vanilla wafers for authentic texture

No baking, no complicated steps—just layers of comfort in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 (5 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
8 oz whipped topping, thawed
4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafers

How to Make Publix Banana Pudding at Home

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined. The pudding should be creamy and glossy.

Step 2: Fold in Whipped Topping

Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture. This step is key—it lightens the pudding and gives it that airy, deli-style texture Publix is known for.

Step 3: Slice the Bananas

Slice bananas into even rounds, about ¼-inch thick. Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm to prevent mushiness.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

In a large trifle dish or serving bowl:

Add a layer of vanilla wafers
Add a layer of banana slices
Spread a generous layer of pudding

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the wafers to soften and the flavors to meld—don’t skip this step.

Tips for the Best Banana Pudding

Use cold milk for the pudding to set properly
Don’t overmix once you add the whipped topping
Layer gently to keep the bananas intact
Chill overnight for the most authentic Publix-style texture

How to Keep Bananas from Turning Brown

Bananas naturally brown over time, but chilling helps slow the process. If you’re making this ahead, keep the pudding tightly covered and store it in the coldest part of your refrigerator. The pudding layer also helps protect the bananas from air exposure.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days
Best texture: Within the first 24–36 hours
Not freezer-friendly: Freezing affects the pudding texture

This dessert is ideal for prepping the night before parties or holidays.

Variations You’ll Love

Chocolate Banana Pudding

Add a layer of chocolate wafers or drizzle chocolate syrup between layers.

Extra Creamy Version

Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer pudding base.

Homemade Whipped Cream

Swap whipped topping for freshly whipped cream if you prefer a more homemade feel.

What to Serve with Banana Pudding

This dessert pairs beautifully with:

Southern fried chicken
BBQ ribs or pulled pork
Holiday meals like Easter or Thanksgiving
Simple summer cookouts

It’s comforting, familiar, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why This Tastes Like the Real Publix Banana Pudding

Publix keeps things simple—and that’s exactly what this recipe does. No egg custards, no baking, no unnecessary steps. The result is a smooth, creamy banana pudding that tastes just like the deli favorite you know and love.

Final Thoughts

This Publix Banana Pudding recipe is proof that the best desserts don’t need to be complicated. Creamy, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to make, it’s the kind of dish that brings people back for seconds—and thirds.

If you love classic Southern desserts or miss that iconic Publix flavor, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

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