Bananas Foster Pudding (A Decadent Twist on a Southern Classic)

If you’re a fan of banana pudding and love the deep, caramel warmth of Bananas Foster, you’re in for a treat. This Bananas Foster Pudding combines the creamy, nostalgic comfort of traditional banana pudding with the buttery, rum-spiked magic of caramelized bananas. It’s the kind of dessert that feels both luxurious and familiar — perfect for holidays, potlucks, or impressive weeknight indulgence.

Velvety vanilla pudding layers with Nilla wafers, whipped cream, and bananas sautéed in a brown sugar rum glaze. It’s indulgent yet effortless — and guaranteed to wow anyone who takes a bite.

 Ingredients & What They Do

For the Bananas Foster Sauce:

• 4 ripe bananas (sliced thick) – Sweet and tender when caramelized; choose bananas just beginning to brown.

• ½ cup brown sugar – Deep molasses flavor for authentic caramelization.

• ¼ cup unsalted butter – Rich base for the sauce.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the sweetness.

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and balance.

• 1–2 tablespoons dark rum or banana liqueur – Traditional Bananas Foster flavor. (Use extract for alcohol-free version.)

For the Pudding Layer:

• 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix – Quick and smooth; perfect base.

• 2 cups cold whole milk – Creamy texture and classic pudding consistency.

• 1 cup heavy cream (whipped) – Lightens the pudding and adds richness.

• 1 teaspoon banana extract (optional) – Enhances banana flavor if your bananas are mild.

For Assembly:

• 1 box Nilla wafers or graham crackers – Classic crunch and structure.

• Extra whipped cream (for topping)

• Toasted pecans or caramel drizzle (optional) – For added texture and wow factor.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

 1. Make the Bananas Foster

• In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.

• Add brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Stir until bubbly.

• Gently fold in banana slices and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender.

• Carefully add rum (or banana extract) and cook 1 more minute until slightly thickened.

• Remove from heat and cool completely.

 2. Prepare the Pudding

• In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).

• Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream to make it extra light and airy.

• Add banana extract if desired for extra flavor punch.

 3. Assemble the Layers

In a trifle dish, glass bowl, or individual cups:

1. Layer 1: Nilla wafers or graham crackers.

2. Layer 2: Spoon a layer of vanilla pudding over the cookies.

3. Layer 3: Add a layer of cooled bananas foster mixture.

4. Repeat the layers until your dish is full, ending with pudding or bananas on top.

 4. Chill

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, so the flavors marry and the cookies soften slightly.

 5. Top & Serve

• Before serving, top with fresh whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and toasted pecans if using.

• Garnish with a few fresh banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

 Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

• Elevated flavor – Takes banana pudding to gourmet levels with caramelized bananas and rum.

• Make-ahead friendly – Ideal for holidays, parties, or meal prepping.

• No-bake dessert – Easy to prepare, no oven required.

• Customizable – Make it boozy or kid-friendly, add nuts or go nut-free, layer in jars or a trifle bowl.

• Texture heaven – Creamy pudding, tender bananas, soft wafers, and a rich caramel finish.

 Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Foster Pudding

• Use ripe but firm bananas — too soft and they’ll turn mushy.

• Want a stronger rum flavor? Add a splash of dark rum to the pudding too.

• To make it alcohol-free, use rum extract (½ teaspoon) instead.

• Make individual portions in mason jars or ramekins for grab-and-go desserts.

• For a twist, use cinnamon graham crackers or Biscoff cookies instead of wafers.

 Serving Suggestions

Pair your Bananas Foster Pudding with:

• A hot espresso or strong coffee to cut through the sweetness.

• A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for double indulgence.

• Crunchy praline or candied bacon on top for a salty-sweet contrast.

• As part of a Southern dessert bar alongside pecan pie or bread pudding.

 Final Thoughts: The Best of Two Desserts in One

This Bananas Foster Pudding is the best of both worlds — the nostalgic creaminess of banana pudding meets the rich, caramelized decadence of Bananas Foster. It’s easy enough for a casual dinner, elegant enough for a holiday spread, and guaranteed to be the first thing to disappear.

So go ahead, make dessert the main event. One spoonful of this and you’ll never go back to basic banana pudding again.

📌 Pin this recipe, print it, or share it — and treat your guests to a spoonful of Southern decadence done right!