Bananas Foster Banana Pudding

Bananas Foster Banana Pudding is a rich, indulgent twist on the classic Southern dessert. It combines creamy banana pudding with caramelized bananas in a buttery rum sauce, inspired by the iconic New Orleans Bananas Foster. Layered with vanilla wafers and whipped topping, this dessert is bold, comforting, and completely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms a beloved classic into something truly special. The warm notes of brown sugar, butter, and rum blend beautifully with the creamy banana pudding and soft bananas. It’s a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for entertaining, holidays, or whenever you want to impress a crowd.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe bananas, sliced
• Instant banana pudding mix
• Cold milk
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Whipped topping or whipped cream
• Vanilla wafers
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Dark rum (or rum extract for a non-alcoholic version)
• Vanilla extract

directions

this recipe

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together banana pudding mix, cold milk, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and thickened. Fold in whipped topping. Chill while preparing bananas.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until dissolved and bubbling.
3. Add banana slices and cook for 1–2 minutes until coated and slightly softened.
4. Carefully stir in rum or rum extract and vanilla extract. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. In a trifle dish or serving bowl, layer vanilla wafers, banana pudding mixture, and caramelized bananas. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top.
6. Top with additional whipped topping, banana slices, and a drizzle of the leftover Bananas Foster sauce if desired.
7. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

Serves 8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Use Nilla wafer crumbs instead of whole wafers for a parfait-style dessert
• Add a layer of crushed toffee or caramel bits for crunch
• Make it boozy with spiced rum or bourbon
• Use banana liqueur instead of rum for a stronger banana flavor
• Replace whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for extra richness

storage/reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This dessert is best served chilled. Do not freeze, as the pudding and bananas may become watery and the wafers soggy.

FAQs

What is Bananas Foster?

Bananas Foster is a dessert made with bananas caramelized in butter, brown sugar, and rum, often flambéed and served with ice cream.

Can I make this pudding without alcohol?

Yes, use rum extract instead of dark rum for all the flavor without the alcohol content.

What kind of bananas work best?

Use ripe but firm bananas—too soft and they’ll turn mushy in the sauce and layers.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance for best flavor and texture.

What kind of rum is best?

Dark rum or spiced rum adds the richest flavor. Avoid light rum as it’s too mild.

Can I use homemade pudding?

Absolutely. Homemade banana pudding can elevate the recipe, though the instant mix keeps things easy and quick.

Can I use graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers?

Yes, graham crackers or shortbread cookies make great alternatives.

How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

The caramelized sauce helps preserve them, but you can also add a little lemon juice to the bananas before cooking.

What toppings go well with this?

Crushed nuts, caramel drizzle, or extra whipped cream are all great finishing touches.

Can I serve this warm?

It’s best served chilled, but the Bananas Foster component can be served warm over the cold pudding for contrast.

Conclusion

Bananas Foster Banana Pudding is the ultimate upgrade to a classic dessert, combining the nostalgic charm of banana pudding with the decadent flavor of Bananas Foster. It’s creamy, sweet, and just a bit indulgent—the kind of dessert that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or just because, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

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