Light • Creamy • Dreamy • Perfect for Parties
Quick Description
Banana Pudding Lush is a rich, layered no-bake dessert made with creamy banana pudding, soft cream cheese filling, fresh bananas, and buttery vanilla wafer crumbs. It tastes like classic Southern banana pudding but with an ultra-smooth, cloud-like texture and irresistible layered look. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or days when you want a cold, comforting dessert.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 3–4 hours
Total Time: 3 hrs 20 min
You Will Need
Crust Layer
- 1 box vanilla wafers (2½ cups crushed crumbs)
- ½ cup melted butter
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
Banana Pudding Layer
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant banana pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped topping
Banana Layer
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
Topping
- 1–2 cups whipped topping
- Extra vanilla wafer crumbs
- Extra banana slices
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- Crush vanilla wafers into fine crumbs.
- Mix with melted butter until sandy and fully coated.
- Press evenly into the bottom of a 9×9 or 9×13 pan.
- Chill while preparing other layers.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add powdered sugar + vanilla extract and continue beating.
- Fold in whipped topping gently until smooth and airy.
- Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
3. Add the Banana Layer
- Slice bananas right before layering.
- Arrange evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- This keeps the bananas fresh and prevents browning.
4. Make the Banana Pudding Layer
- Whisk together cold milk and banana pudding mixes until thickened.
- Fold in 1 cup whipped topping to make it extra creamy.
- Spread pudding over the banana layer.
5. Add the Final Topping
- Spread a generous layer of whipped topping on top.
- Garnish with:
- banana slices
- vanilla wafer crumbs
Chill
Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight for the best set and flavor.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Up to 3 days (bananas may darken slightly after day 2)
- Freezer: Not recommended — pudding may separate
- Best Make-Ahead Time: 12–18 hours before serving