Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun shines down and the scent of summer fills the air, I can’t help but think of family gatherings, laughter, and shared treats. Enter my Ultimate Banana Pudding Bars—an easy, no-bake delight that’s bound to become your new favorite dessert. With a scrumptious, crunchy cookie base layered under rich vanilla pudding and fresh banana slices, these bars perfectly marry comforting nostalgia with modern convenience. They’re customizable too; whether you prefer them dairy-free or want to add a chocolate twist, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare. Grab your ingredients and get ready to impress your loved ones—these Banana Pudding Bars are just a few steps away! What unique spin will you put on this classic? Why Are Banana Pudding Bars So Irresistible? Easy Preparation: You won’t need to break a sweat with this no-bake recipe; making these Banana Pudding Bars is a breeze. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for any occasion, the creamy layers and crunchy crust will impress family and friends alike! Customizable Flavors: Want a twist? Try out variations like the Dairy-Free Version or Chocolate Banana Pudding Bars, giving you endless possibilities. Memorable Moments: These bars capture the essence of summer gatherings and cherished memories, making them a nostalgic favorite. Minimal Ingredients: Utilizing simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible for home chefs of all skill levels, ensuring delicious results every time. Indulge further with delightful treats like Banana Split Bars or opt for sweet snacks with Banana Chips Homemade. Banana Pudding Bars Ingredients For the Crust • Crushed Vanilla Wafers – Provides the crunchy base; crushed gluten-free cookies can be used for a gluten-free option. • Unsalted Butter – Binds the crust together and adds richness; coconut oil works for a dairy-free version. For the Filling • Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – Forms the creamy filling for the Banana Pudding Bars; regular pudding will require cooking. • Whole Milk – Needed to prepare the pudding; opt for almond or coconut milk for dairy-free versions. • Ripe Bananas – Adds natural sweetness and flavor; overripe bananas are preferred for the best taste. For the Topping • Whipped Cream – Adds a rich and fluffy topping; substitute with dairy-free whipped topping if desired. • Additional Sliced Bananas (for garnish) – Enhances visual appeal while providing freshness. • Chocolate Shavings or Graham Cracker Crumbs – Optional garnishes to add texture and flavor. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Pudding Bars Step 1: Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your crust will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden hue. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and prepare your equipment, including a greased 9×13 inch baking dish—this will be the foundation for your delicious Banana Pudding Bars. Step 2: Prepare the Crust In a mixing bowl, combine your crushed vanilla wafers and melted unsalted butter, stirring until the mixture resembles wet sand. This step is crucial as it binds your crust together, which adds crunch and flavor to the bars. Ensure every crumb is coated evenly, making it easier to pack into the baking dish. Step 3: Press Crust into Pan Transfer the crushed mixture into your greased baking dish, using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to firmly press it down into an even layer. Aim for a slight rise around the edges, which will help contain the pudding filling later. Make sure it’s tightly packed to create a sturdy base for your Banana Pudding Bars. Step 4: Bake the Crust Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden and fragrant. Watch closely to avoid overcooking, as it can become too hard. Once out of the oven, allow the crust to cool completely, which will help keep the layers distinct when assembling your bars. Step 5: Make the Pudding In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. The pudding should be smooth and creamy, ready to be the luscious filling of your Banana Pudding Bars. If you opt for a dairy-free version, substitute almond or coconut milk here for equally tasty results. Step 6: Layer Bananas Once your crust has cooled, evenly distribute the sliced bananas over the top, creating a lovely layer that adds natural sweetness and flavor. Make sure to cover the crust well, as this will enhance the overall taste of your Banana Pudding Bars, melding beautifully with the pudding in the following step. Step 7: Spread Pudding Gently pour the thickened pudding mixture over the layers of bananas, ensuring an even distribution across the entire surface. Use a spatula to smooth the top, making sure that each square will have an identical serving of creamy goodness. This forms the heart of your Banana Pudding Bars and contributes to their delightful texture. Step 8: Chill Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow the pudding to set properly. Chilling helps to meld the flavors together, making the bars easier to slice and enhance their creamy consistency. Trust me; this step is essential for achieving the best results for your Banana Pudding Bars. Step 9: Add Whipped Cream After the pudding has set, spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the chilled pudding, creating a fluffy topping that adds richness. If you prefer a dairy-free option, feel free to use a dairy-free whipped topping. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful finish to your Banana Pudding Bars. Step 10: Garnish To elevate the look and add a fresh touch, top your whipped cream layer with additional banana slices and optional chocolate shavings or graham cracker crumbs. This adds texture and visual appeal, making your Banana Pudding Bars irresistible. Each bite will now have that perfect combination of flavors and textures. Step 11: Slice and Serve Cut the chilled Banana Pudding Bars into squares for serving, using a sharp knife for clean edges. Serve these delightful treats to family and friends, savoring the creamy layers and satisfying crunch. Remember to store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and delicious! Storage Tips for Banana Pudding Bars Fridge: Store your Banana Pudding Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain their freshness and creaminess. Freezer: You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: To enjoy frozen Banana Pudding Bars, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor. Reheating: While these bars are best served cold, if you wish to soften them slightly, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Make Ahead Options These Banana Pudding Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the crust and pudding up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first four steps of the recipe, then cover the baked crust with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The pudding can be whisked together and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to layer it on the cooled crust. On the day you plan to serve, slice fresh bananas and layer them over the crust, then spread the chilled pudding mixture before topping with whipped cream. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Banana Pudding Bars while saving precious time on busy days! What to Serve with Ultimate Banana Pudding Bars As you prepare to delight in the creamy goodness of your homemade dessert, consider these perfect pairings to enhance your meal experience. Iced Tea: A refreshing glass complements the sweetness of the bars and adds a delightful chill to your summer gatherings. Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade beautifully contrasts with the rich flavors of the Banana Pudding Bars, creating a balanced sip. Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruits add a colorful and nutritious touch, harmonizing well with the banana theme while providing a crunchy contrast. Chocolate Ice Cream: A scoop of this indulgent treat elevates the dessert experience, offering a decadent combination of flavors that dessert lovers will adore. Whipped Cream: Extra dollops allow for creamy indulgence with every bite, enhancing the bar’s options for those craving a bit more fluff. Pecan Topping: Chopped pecans sprinkled on top add a satisfying crunch, perfectly coordinating with the creamy layers and complementing the banana flavor. Vanilla Yogurt: A scoop on the side helps balance the sweetness of the bars while introducing a tangy element to each delicious bite. Banana Pudding Bars Variations Get ready to elevate your Banana Pudding Bars with these scrumptious and customizable variations! Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the crust for a tasty crunch. The nuts will enhance the overall flavor and add a lovely texture to your bars. Your family will be pleasantly surprised by the delightful twist! Dairy-Free Version: Swap out whole milk for almond or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free whipped topping. This ensures everyone can enjoy this creamy treat without compromising on flavors. It’s just as luscious! Chocolate Banana Pudding Bars: Replace the vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding for a decadent dessert experience. This version offers a rich, chocolaty profile that chocolate lovers won’t be able to resist—an ultimate indulgence! Key Lime Twist: Add zest and a bit of juice from fresh key limes to the pudding for a refreshing citrus flavor. This zesty addition transforms the bars into a citrusy delight that brightens up any gathering. Frozen Delight: Freeze the assembled bars for a cool dessert option on hot days. Thaw slightly before serving for the perfect creamy ice cream alternative that offers a refreshing twist on the classic! Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped cream topping for an extra layer of sweetness. It adds a sticky, gooey finish that pairs beautifully with the bananas and pudding. Berry Bump-Up: Add a layer of fresh mixed berries on top of your banana layer before spreading the pudding. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries give the bars a colorful twist and burst of flavor! Graham Cracker Base: Swap out the vanilla wafers for crushed graham crackers in the crust for a new flavor twist. This simple change introduces a hint of that classic s’mores flavor in your Banana Pudding Bars. Ready to get creative? Trust me, these variations will delight your taste buds and make these bars even more memorable! And if you’re in the mood for some other banana-infused treats, don’t forget to check out Banana Split Bars or whip up some Banana Chips Homemade. Enjoy your culinary adventures! Expert Tips for Banana Pudding Bars Ripe Bananas: Use perfectly ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness; overripe bananas work wonderfully. Layering Technique: For optimal flavor, layer bananas generously to ensure every bite of your Banana Pudding Bars bursts with fruity goodness. Prevent Browning: Sprinkle a little lemon juice on banana slices before layering to keep them from browning and losing visual appeal. Chill Time: Chill the bars overnight if possible; this improves the texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Proper Storage: Keep banana pudding bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Banana Pudding Bars Recipe FAQs What kind of bananas should I use for the Banana Pudding Bars? Absolutely! For the best flavor and sweetness, use perfectly ripe bananas. Overripe bananas, with their brown spots, are ideal as they enhance the natural sweetness and contribute to a deeper flavor in your bars. How should I store my Banana Pudding Bars? For optimal freshness, store your Banana Pudding Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them creamy and delicious, ready for you to enjoy anytime! Can I freeze Banana Pudding Bars? Yes, you can! Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to retain their texture and flavor. What should I do if my pudding mix doesn’t thicken? If your pudding mix isn’t thickening, you may not have whisked it long enough or the milk ratio might be off. Ensure you whisk the instant pudding mix with the milk for a full 2 minutes to help it thicken. If it still seems too runny, let it sit for a few minutes before pouring it over the bananas. Are Banana Pudding Bars safe for people with nut allergies? If you’re catering to those with nut allergies, be cautious with your ingredient choices. Stick to the original recipe with crushed vanilla wafers and whipped cream. If you want to add ingredients like nuts for variations, offer them separately to avoid cross-contamination. It’s always best to check with your guests beforehand! Can I make Banana Pudding Bars dairy-free? Very! To create a dairy-free version, simply swap out whole milk for almond or coconut milk, and use coconut oil in place of butter. You can also choose dairy-free whipped topping to finish your bars off without compromising on flavor. Enjoy your delicious treat without worry! Irresistible Banana Pudding Bars: A No-Bake Family Favorite These Banana Pudding Bars combine a crunchy cookie base with creamy vanilla pudding and fresh bananas, making them an irresistible no-bake dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChill Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 42 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust2 cups Crushed Vanilla Wafers Use gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free option.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version.For the Filling1 box Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix Regular pudding will require cooking.2 cups Whole Milk Opt for almond or coconut milk for dairy-free versions.3 medium Ripe Bananas Overripe bananas are preferred for the best taste.For the Topping2 cups Whipped Cream Dairy-free whipped topping can be used as a substitute.1 cup Additional Sliced Bananas For garnish.Chocolate Shavings or Graham Cracker Crumbs Optional garnishes. Equipment Mixing BowlBaking dishwhisk Method Preparation StepsPreheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and prepare your equipment, including a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers and melted unsalted butter, stirring until the mixture resembles wet sand.Press Crust into Pan: Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish, using the back of a measuring cup to press it down into an even layer.Bake the Crust: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool completely.Make the Pudding: Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.Layer Bananas: Evenly distribute the sliced bananas over the cooled crust.Spread Pudding: Gently pour the pudding mixture over the bananas, ensuring an even distribution.Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow the pudding to set.Add Whipped Cream: After the pudding has set, spread a layer of whipped cream over the pudding.Garnish: Top the whipped cream with additional banana slices and optional garnishes.Slice and Serve: Cut the chilled Banana Pudding Bars into squares and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 160mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg NotesUse ripe bananas for the best flavor. To prevent browning, sprinkle lemon juice on banana slices before layering. Chill overnight if possible for optimal texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
