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Easy Layered Banana Pudding Trifle Recipe

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4.6 from 136 reviews

This Easy Layered Banana Pudding Trifle is a delightful and creamy dessert featuring layers of classic vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, crunchy Nilla Wafers, and fluffy Cool Whip. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake trifle comes together quickly, combining rich flavors and textures into a visually stunning treat that your family and guests will love.

Ingredients

Pudding

  • 1 large box (5 oz) Jell-O Cook and Serve Vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups 2% milk

Layers

  • 7 bananas, sliced
  • 1 box Nilla Wafers
  • 1 (16 oz) container Cool Whip

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pudding: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the 3 cups of 2% milk with the pudding mix. Stir constantly to prevent lumps as the mixture heats. Cook until it begins to boil, then remove from heat. Transfer the pudding into a mixing bowl and allow it to cool for at least 5 minutes.
  2. Layer the Trifle: Start by placing a layer of Nilla Wafers evenly at the bottom of your trifle dish. Add a generous layer of Cool Whip over the wafers. Next, spread a layer of the cooled vanilla pudding, followed by a layer of freshly sliced bananas, and then another thin layer of Nilla Wafers.
  3. Repeat Layers: Continue layering the ingredients in the same sequence — wafers, Cool Whip, pudding, and banana slices — building up the trifle until the dish is filled to your liking.
  4. Top and Decorate: Finish the trifle with a final layer of Nilla Wafers and banana slices on top. For extra texture and visual appeal, crumble a few additional wafers and sprinkle them over the surface as decoration.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 2 hours or until ready to serve. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld wonderfully, making the dessert even more delicious.

Notes

  • For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to avoid browning too quickly.
  • You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream if preferred.
  • Keep the banana slices from browning by lightly tossing them with lemon juice before layering.
  • This dessert is best enjoyed within 24 hours of assembly for optimal freshness and texture.
  • Feel free to add layers of chopped nuts or shredded coconut for added texture.