Hey y'all! If you're craving something sweet, creamy, and reminiscent of your favorite Southern fast food treat, you're in for a real delight. This Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert nails that signature layered goodness with velvety vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped cream, fresh bananas, and classic vanilla wafers. It's perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you just want to indulge in a comforting classic. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert
- Quick and easy to assemble—no baking required!
- Rich, creamy layers bursting with fresh banana flavor.
- Perfect for crowds, parties, or easy weeknight desserts.
- Customizable to suit your favorite add-ins or dietary needs.
- Keeps beautifully in the fridge for make-ahead convenience.
Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert Ingredients
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (12 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
- 5–6 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies (about 45–50 cookies)
How to Make Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Pudding Base
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, blending until velvety and fully combined.
- Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the prepared pudding until smooth and lump-free.
- Fold in half (6 oz) of the whipped topping until just combined. Reserve the rest for the top layer.
Step 2: Assemble the Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert
- Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9x13-inch glass dish or trifle bowl.
- Top with a layer of sliced bananas.
- Spread half of the creamy pudding mixture over the bananas.
- Repeat with another layer of wafers, bananas, and remaining pudding mixture.
- Finish with a final layer of whipped topping, spreading evenly.
- Optional: Crush a few extra wafers to sprinkle on top for a decorative, crunchy finish.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—or overnight—for best flavor and texture.
- Serve chilled, scooping generous spoonfuls into bowls or cups.
Notes for Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert Success
- Use ripe but firm bananas to ensure they hold up well after chilling—learn how to pick the best bananas at EatRight.org.
- If you prefer homemade whipped cream, substitute 3 cups of freshly whipped cream for the whipped topping.
- For an extra rich flavor, try using French vanilla pudding mix.
Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert Variations
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Fold ½ cup creamy peanut butter into the pudding mixture.
- Chocolate Lovers: Layer in chocolate pudding or drizzle chocolate syrup between layers.
- Berry Banana: Add fresh strawberries or blueberries with the banana layers for a fruity twist.
Equipment Needed for Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert
- Large mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Whisk and spatula
- 9x13-inch glass dish or trifle bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert Storage Instructions
Cover leftover banana pudding tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, enjoy within 48 hours, as bananas may begin to brown after that—though the flavor remains delicious!
Serving & Pairing Suggestions for Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert
- Serve with a tall glass of iced sweet tea or cold milk for a classic Southern touch.
- Pair with barbecue favorites or fried chicken for a full comfort meal experience.
- Garnish with extra banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flair.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert
- Let the pudding chill overnight for maximum flavor fusion and a firm, sliceable texture—read more about why chilling matters at Serious Eats.
- To prevent browning, lightly toss banana slices in lemon juice before layering.
- Layer cookies and bananas evenly for a beautiful presentation in every scoop—check out presentation tips at Better Homes & Gardens.
Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert FAQ
- Can I make this Chick-Fil-A Banana Pudding Copycat Dessert ahead of time?
- Absolutely! It tastes even better when made a day before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
- Yes, homemade vanilla pudding works great—just be sure it's fully cooled before assembling.
- What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?
- Shortbread cookies, graham crackers, or butter cookies are tasty substitutes if vanilla wafers aren't available.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
Ingredients
- 1 (5.1 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
-
1In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.
-
2Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until fully combined. Set aside.
-
3In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
-
4Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth and creamy.
-
5In a 9x13-inch dish, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding mixture. Repeat layers, ending with pudding on top.
-
6Spread the remaining whipped cream over the top. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!