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.

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.

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

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.

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.