Timeless Banana Pudding Parfaits

Contents

Indulge in Nostalgic Comfort: The Ultimate Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits

There’s something inherently comforting about a classic dessert, and these Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits perfectly capture that feeling. Featuring layers of velvety homemade banana pudding, crisp vanilla wafer cookies, and billowy whipped cream, this dessert is a delightful journey back to childhood. It’s the ultimate comfort food, presented in an elegant, individual serving.

Love bananas? Explore another delightful banana creation with this Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread for a different kind of sweet treat!

For the longest time, I genuinely believed I didn’t like bananas. It’s a confession that seems almost unbelievable to me now, considering I enjoy a banana almost every single day. Perhaps it was the texture of an overripe banana, or maybe I just hadn’t experienced them in the right culinary context. Whatever the reason, my perspective completely shifted, especially when it came to classic banana pudding.

Now, I often find myself craving the creamy, sweet bliss of homemade banana pudding. There’s a magic in how the smooth, rich pudding harmonizes with the crisp, vanilla-scented Nilla wafers. It’s a flavor combination that evokes pure joy and a deep sense of comfort. I mean, who could resist a generous spoonful of these Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits? Each layer offers a delightful contrast in texture and taste, making every bite an experience to savor.

These Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits offer all the beloved flavors of a traditional banana cream pie, but with an added touch of charm and simplicity. Served in individual cute jars or glasses, they are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. They eliminate the need for a crust or intricate assembly, making them perfect for both casual family desserts and more elegant gatherings. The individual portions also ensure everyone gets their own delightful serving of this beloved treat.

In the past, I’ve openly admitted my appreciation for instant pudding, especially for quick fixes like my Birds Nest Easter Dirt Cups. It’s undoubtedly fast, convenient, and a real time-saver. However, there’s an undeniable superiority to homemade pudding. The depth of flavor, the customizability, and the silky-smooth texture of a pudding made from scratch are simply unparalleled. And the best part? Creating homemade banana pudding is far less intimidating than it sounds. It’s a culinary myth that needs to be debunked!

You’ll be surprised to learn that it’s not a long, complicated, or difficult process. With just a few staple ingredients you likely already have stocked in your pantry – eggs, sugar, flour, milk, cream, and vanilla – you’re merely about 10 minutes away from crafting your very own batch of sublime homemade banana pudding. The effort is minimal, but the reward is immense: a truly authentic flavor that instant varieties simply cannot replicate.

For making this exquisite homemade banana pudding, I relied on my STUNNING Swiss Diamond 6.9L Enameled Cast Iron Round Casserole. This pot has truly earned a permanent and cherished spot on my countertop. Its striking rubis rouge color is not just a visual delight, but its performance is equally impressive. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for everything from slow braises and hearty pots of soup to delicate tasks like preparing this banana pudding recipe. The even heat distribution and durable construction make it an indispensable tool in my kitchen.

A Nod to Exceptional Cookware: My Swiss Diamond Favorites

I might just be Swiss Diamond’s biggest enthusiast! Beyond its aesthetic appeal, their cookware consistently delivers outstanding results. I also frequently use their 6.3 Qt. Shallow Casserole, which was perfect for preparing these savory One Pan Pork Chops with Apples and Cinnamon. This shallow casserole also enjoys a permanent residence on my stovetop, testament to its everyday utility. Essentially, these two pans handle nearly every cooking task I undertake! And, of course, I’ve already set my sights on the beautiful Cast Iron 8.9 Oval Casserole to complete my collection.

Isn’t that deep red color simply stunning? It creates such a beautiful contrast against the pale, creamy yellow of the banana pudding, making the cooking process feel even more special and inspiring.

What is a Parfait? Unlayering the Delightful Dessert

A parfait, in its essence, is a beautiful layered dessert typically served in a tall, clear glass. The term “parfait” itself comes from the French word for “perfect,” and indeed, these desserts often live up to their name in both appearance and taste. While traditionally associated with frozen desserts, parfaits can encompass various components such including pudding, ice cream, yogurt, crushed cookies, cake pieces, granola, and fresh fruit. The beauty of a parfait lies in its versatility, allowing for endless creative combinations to craft unique and delicious flavor profiles.

Crafting Your Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delightful parfaits is a straightforward process that yields incredibly satisfying results. Follow these simple steps to bring your nostalgic dessert to life:

**Prepare the Eggs:** Begin by taking 3 large eggs. Carefully separate the whites from the yolks, placing the yolks into a medium-sized bowl. Add one whole egg to the yolks. This combination creates a rich and creamy base for the pudding.
**Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large, heavy-bottomed pot (like our stunning Swiss Diamond casserole), combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps, which is crucial for a smooth pudding.
**Incorporate Wet Ingredients:** Gradually whisk the egg mixture into the dry ingredients in the pot. Then, slowly add the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
**Cook the Pudding:** Place the pot over medium heat. Cook the mixture, uncovered, for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently and consistently with a whisk or a rubber spatula. The pudding will gradually thicken as it cooks. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds a trail when a finger is drawn across it, or when it comes to a gentle boil for 1 minute while stirring. Be careful not to scorch the bottom.
**Add Flavoring & Cool:** Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the pudding to cool slightly at room temperature, then cover the surface directly with plastic wrap (to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until completely chilled. This cooling step is vital for the pudding to set properly before assembly.
**Prepare the Wafers:** While the pudding chills, take about 30 vanilla wafers. Place them into a large ziploc bag and gently crush them using a rolling pin or your hands. You want a mix of fine crumbs and small pieces for texture.
**Assemble the Parfaits:** To assemble, place approximately 2 tablespoons of the crushed vanilla wafers into the bottom of each parfait glass or small jar.
**Layer the Pudding:** Top the wafers with about 2 tablespoons of the homemade banana pudding. Follow this with another 2 tablespoons of crushed wafers, and then finish with a final layer of 2 more tablespoons of banana pudding. Repeat this layering for all glasses.
**Garnish & Serve:** For a beautiful finishing touch, top each glass with a whole Nilla wafer, a fresh slice of banana (tossed lightly in lemon juice if making slightly ahead to prevent browning), and a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Pudding Parfaits

Let’s address some common queries to help you perfect your parfaits.

Can I use instant pudding to make Banana Pudding Parfaits?

Absolutely! While homemade pudding offers an unparalleled depth of flavor and creamy texture, instant or cook-and-serve banana pudding is a perfectly acceptable alternative if you’re pressed for time. You can easily find these at any grocery store. Just prepare according to package directions, then chill thoroughly before layering. The parfaits will still be delicious, offering a quicker path to this beloved dessert.

Can I make these Banana Pudding Parfaits in advance?

I generally do not recommend fully assembling these parfaits too far in advance, typically not more than a few hours before serving. The main reason for this caution is that the vanilla wafer cookies will absorb moisture from the pudding and become soggy if left overnight or for too long. While some prefer a softer wafer, the delightful crunch is a key part of the classic experience.

What I *do* recommend is making the homemade banana pudding a day in advance. Store it covered tightly in the refrigerator. Then, simply assemble the parfaits just before you plan to serve them. This approach allows you to enjoy the fresh texture of the cookies while still taking advantage of make-ahead convenience.

What are some other delightful parfait flavors?

Parfaits are incredibly versatile, much like “Dirt Cups” – a dessert concept I’ve explored with my Peanut Butter Dirt Cup and a refreshing Lemon Dirt Cup on the site. The beauty lies in mixing and matching components! You can choose any type of pudding, ice cream, or yogurt flavor you desire, and pair it with your favorite cookies, cake crumbles, granola, or fresh fruit.

Here are a few more parfait flavor combinations we love to create:

**Yogurt, Fruit, and Granola Parfaits:** A healthy and vibrant option! Layer your favorite yogurt flavor (Greek yogurt works wonderfully for extra creaminess) with an abundance of chopped fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and kiwi. Finish with a generous sprinkle of crunchy granola for added texture.
**Chocolate and Vanilla Dream Parfaits:** A classic combination that never disappoints. Layer rich chocolate pudding with golden sandwich cookies or crushed shortbread for a decadent treat.
**Chocolate Covered Strawberry Parfaits:** Indulge in this delightful twist! Begin with a layer of smooth chocolate pudding, followed by a layer of freshly chopped strawberries. Repeat the layers for an irresistible dessert. For an extra crunch, top with crushed peanuts.
**Deconstructed Banana Split Parfaits:** Take this homemade banana pudding to the next level by layering it with crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, vibrant chopped strawberries, and a sprinkle of chopped pineapple. Repeat the layers, then crown each parfait with a dollop of whipped cream, a scattering of chopped peanuts, and, of course, a maraschino cherry on top for the ultimate banana split experience.

These Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits are an easy, yet elegantly presented dessert that promises to impress with minimal effort.

7 votes

Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits

Cook 10 mins

Inactive 1 hour

Total 1 hour, 10 mins

Author Megan | Strawberry Blondie Kitchen

Yield 6 servings

Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits

Ingredients

4 large eggs, separated
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon plus a pinch salt
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
30 vanilla wafers
whipped cream, sliced bananas and additional vanilla wafers for garnish

Instructions

Take 3 eggs and separate the whites from the yolks. Place them into a bowl and add one whole egg.
Into a large pot, over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour and salt. Stir in egg mixture, milk and heavy cream.
Cook, uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring often, until thickened.
Remove from heat and add vanilla.
Allow to cool slightly before assembling parfaits.
Into a large ziploc bag, crush Nilla Wafers.
Place 2 tablespoons wafers into the bottom of a parfait glass or small jar.
Top with 2 tablespoons pudding, followed by 2 more tablespoons of wafers and ending with 2 more tablespoons banana pudding.
Top each glass with a Nilla wafer, slice of banana and a dollop of whipped cream.

Notes

Slightly Adapted from Lemon Glazed Shortbread Bars

Courses Dessert

Cuisine American

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 8 servings

Amount Per Serving
Calories 233
% Daily Value
Total Fat 13 g		20%
	Saturated Fat 7 g	35%
Cholesterol 30 mg		10%
Sodium 299 mg		12%
Total Carbohydrates 18 g		6%
	Dietary Fiber 4 g	16%
	Sugars 4 g
Protein 9 g		18%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

There’s truly nothing quite like the comforting taste of these Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, deliciously satisfying, and guaranteed to be a hit with the entire family. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy evening at home, these parfaits deliver pure dessert happiness!

Celebrate the Season with #SpringSweetsWeek 2019!

Welcome to #SpringSweetsWeek 2019, proudly hosted by Heather from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks and Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures! What better way to greet the vibrant arrival of spring than with a spectacular array of sweet recipes and an exciting giveaway? Thirty talented bloggers from across the country have come together to share over 100 delectable sweet treats, all perfectly suited for spring celebrations. Get ready to swap out your winter gear for delicious delights like festive cupcakes, delightful cookies, wholesome sweet breads, and refreshing cocktails! Our generous #SpringSweetsWeek sponsors have made an incredible giveaway possible. A huge thank you to Swiss Diamond, Dixie Crystals, Nancy’s Yogurt, Sprinkle Pop, Adams Extracts, Barleans, Melissa’s Produce, and PEEPS® for their wonderful generosity. We invite you to take a moment to learn about the incredible prizes you could win!

Discover the Fantastic Prizes in our #SpringSweetsWeek Giveaway!

Prize #1: Swiss Diamond Cookware is offering one lucky winner an XD Nonstick 6-Piece Newlywed Kitchen Kit! This set is the ultimate nonstick cookware collection, providing a pot or pan for almost any culinary creation. Known for their exceptional heat conduction and extra-thick cast aluminum bodies, Swiss Diamond pans offer amazingly even heat distribution. Their superior heat retention allows for searing just as effectively as stainless steel, but without the strenuous cleanup. The advanced XD nonstick coating ensures food releases effortlessly, often without needing a drop of oil or butter. This comprehensive set includes a 9.5″ fry pan, an 8″ fry pan, a 2.2-quart saucepan with lid, and a 5.5-quart soup pot with lid.

Swiss Diamond® International traces its origins back to 1974, when HORT Coating Center SA was established in Sierre, Switzerland, as a scientific research company dedicated to exploring new materials and surface coatings. In 2001, a groundbreaking nonstick coating suitable for cookware was developed, leading to the creation of Swiss Diamond® International SA. Visit https://www.swissdiamond.com/ for inspiring recipes and to discover the finest nonstick cookware available.

Prize #2: Dixie Crystals is giving one winner the Wilton Ultimate Cake Decorating Tools Set! Imagine the possibilities for decorating your delicious cakes made with Dixie Crystals sugar using this incredible set! This organizer caddy, in a stylish blue and white, features 4 transparent drawers and 2 top compartments for storing piping tips, along with side slots for spatulas. The set includes an impressive 263 pieces, such as various piping tips, a practice board, decorating bags, straight and angled spatulas, flower nails, and an icing comb. You’ll also find an array of useful fondant tools, including a roller, cut-out sets, impression mats, modeling tools, shaping foam, and a fondant smoother. It’s truly a cake decorator’s dream come true!

Since 1917, Dixie Crystals® has been recognized as the South’s preferred choice for high-quality sugar and sweeteners. Their pure cane sugar products are all-natural, non-GMO, and consistently deliver delicious results in every recipe. Visit www.dixiecrystals.com for hundreds of enticing recipes, creative holiday ideas, wonderful ways to engage children in baking, and a wealth of helpful baking videos.

Prize #3: Melissa’s Produce is offering one winner an Organic Family Produce Box. This fantastic box is filled with 100% organic fruits and vegetables, including kale, cucumbers, apples, pears, lemons, oranges, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, and much more! It makes achieving your daily five servings of fruits and vegetables both easy and enjoyable.

Joe and Sharon Hernandez established Melissa’s Produce with a decade of industry experience, starting in a modest, rented lunchroom within a produce warehouse. The initial office had just three telephones and four chairs. Within a few short years, the company expanded significantly, growing to occupy a newly renovated and spacious 280,000-square-foot office and warehouse complex. The Melissa’s brand is named after Joe and Sharon’s daughter, who now plays an active role in the company. Their Food Service Division has evolved into a comprehensive operation, supplying culinary professionals with staples, exotic items, and Melissa’s complete range of organic produce. Visit https://www.melissas.com to explore their selection of premium fruits, vegetables, gourmet gifts, and to find a variety of tasty recipes!

Prize #4: Nancy’s Yogurt is giving one winner a fabulous Nancy’s Yogurt tote bag filled with exciting items! This tote bag will be generously stuffed with coupons for free Nancy’s Yogurt products, a super cute T-shirt, handy recipe cards, and useful Post-Its. It’s everything you need to learn more about the quality and goodness of Nancy’s Yogurt.

Chuck and Sue Kesey founded Springfield Creamery in Oregon in 1960, shortly after their marriage. For the first ten years, their focus was on bottling glass jugs of milk for home delivery and school lunches. In 1969, Nancy Van Brasch Hamren joined the Creamery and shared her unique recipe for making yogurt. Nancy’s subsequently became the first yogurt sold in the United States to contain live probiotics. By 1999, Nancy’s Yogurt had expanded its distribution to all 50 states. Today, the Springfield Creamery employs nearly 60 people and produces over 100 cultured dairy and soy products. To discover more about Nancy’s Yogurt, their product range, and their production methods, visit https://nancysyogurt.com/.

Prize #5: PEEPS is offering one winner a gift card to PEEPS® & Co. The fortunate winner can choose from a delightful variety of PEEPS® & Co candy items, as well as apparel. They even offer fun gifts like cozy throw blankets, comfortable slippers, adorable plush bunnies, and whimsical socks. The choice of sweet treats or charming merchandise is entirely yours!

Just Born, the company behind PEEPS® & Co., was founded in 1923 in New York and relocated to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in 1932. The company’s name originated when founder Sam Born proudly displayed his daily-made candy in his store window, declaring them “just born.” Today, we cherish the delightful combination of sweet colored sugar and fluffy marshmallows that create the unforgettable taste experience of PEEPS® Brand Marshmallow Candies. Visit https://www.marshmallowpeeps.com/ to shop for PEEPS® & Co. candy, gifts, and apparel.

Prize #6: Barlean’s is giving one winner a fantastic package that includes a bottle of Seriously Delicious Omega-3, Extra Strength Ideal CBD Hemp Oil, and a bag of Super Seeds. Seriously Delicious Omega-3 provides a tasty way to incorporate beneficial Omega-3s into your diet without any lingering fishy aftertaste. The Extra Strength Ideal CBD Hemp Oil is crafted from US-grown hemp, contains no artificial ingredients, boasts a natural mint flavor, is gluten-free, vegan, and is renowned for promoting overall health and enhancing resilience to environmental changes. Super Seeds offer a delicious and easy method to add antioxidants and Omega-3s to your morning oatmeal, smoothies, and yogurt.

Barlean’s operates with a core belief that individuals can positively impact the world through everyday purchases. They are dedicated to producing premium natural supplements and functional foods that nourish both mind and body, and they channel their profits into supporting outreach programs for people in need, both locally and globally. Visit www.barleans.com to learn more about their products, community initiatives, and where you can purchase their offerings.

Prize #7: Adams Extract is providing one winner with four of their exceptional extracts and a set of their vibrant food colors. The extracts included are Pure Almond Extract, Pure Vanilla Extract, and Pure Lemon Extract. Additionally, the lucky winner will receive Adams Best Twice as Strong Vanilla, an outstanding choice for all your baking endeavors.

John A. Adams began his entrepreneurial journey in 1888, making and selling his Green Plant Sarsaparilla extract in Battle Creek, Michigan. In 1905, he relocated his family to Beeville, Texas. Working with just $6.71 worth of materials atop an old icebox, John A. Adams innovated a new formula for vanilla. His wife, after using it in a cake, famously declared, “John, this is the BEST flavoring I have ever used.” To which he responded, “Well, that’s old man Adams BEST.” The name resonated, and Adams Best was born! Today, Adams manufactures and markets under several prominent Adams Brand banners, including Adams Best®, Adams Extract®, Adams® Seasoning & Spice, and many more. To learn more about Adams Extract, explore their product range, or find delicious recipes, visit https://www.adamsextract.com/default.aspx.

Prize #8: Sprinkle Pop is offering one winner six fabulous sprinkle mixes from their delightful Easter collection! The sprinkle mixes include charming themes like Hangin’ with my Peeps, Bewitched, Signature, Green Tea, Cottontail Confetti, and Egg Hunt. These fun and vibrant sprinkles are an ideal addition to elevate any spring or Easter baked goods.

Liz Butts founded Sprinkle Pop in Texas, driven by her keen eye for color combinations and texture. She discovered her knack for pinpointing exactly which sprinkle color combinations work best together, and quickly mastered creating custom blends with perfect textures. The business rapidly grew from a solo operation run out of a small “sprinkle room” in her home during nights and weekends, quickly expanding within a year to a dedicated warehouse space with a devoted team of “sprinkle fairies.” She crafts delicious sprinkle mixes that are custom, vibrant, and luxurious. Over 50% of all their sprinkles are dyed in-house, ensuring they are truly one-of-a-kind! Visit https://sprinklepop.shop/ to shop their exquisite sprinkles, learn about their community contributions, and find fun recipes!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday #SpringSweetsWeek Recipes

Bird’s Nest Thumbprint Cookies by The Freshman Cook
Blood Orange Danish Puff Pastry Pinwheels by The Gingered Whisk
Brownie & Ice Cream Peeps Pops by Kate’s Recipe Box
Caramel Walnut French Toast Bake by Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
Chick’s Nests (aka Haystacks) by Books n’ Cooks
Chocolate Coconut Toasted Granola by Cooking With Carlee
Classic Banana Pudding Parfaits by Strawberry Blondie Kitchen
Cottage Cheese Jello Salad by House of Nash Eats
Easy Coconut Sheet Cake by Palatable Pastime
Fresh Key Lime Pie by Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Lemon Daisy Tartlets by A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Monster Cookie Cake by Cheese Curd In Paradise
Orange Vanilla Creme Baked Donuts by Kelly Lynn’s Sweets and Treats
Orange Creme Smoothie by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Orange Ricotta Cake by The Tip Garden
PEEPS Easter Bunny Vanilla cake by Cookaholic Wife
Small Batch Double Lemon Cupcakes by Family Around the Table
Spring Snack Mix by Sweet Beginnings
Vegan Oatmeal Cookie Sweet Rolls with Oatmilk Yogurt Frosting by The Baking Fairy
Whipped Yogurt Fruit Tart by The Crumby Kitchen
White Chocolate Popcorn with Sprinkles by Creative Southern Home
Yogurt Parfait with Barlean’s Orange Creme by Our Good Life

Still craving more deliciousness?

Follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram for more irresistible recipes and culinary inspiration!

Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest!

Subscribe here! Sign up for easy and delicious recipes delivered weekly—straight to your inbox!

A heartfelt thank you to our #SpringSweetsWeek Sponsors: Dixie Crystals, Swiss Diamond, Nancy’s Yogurt, Barlean’s, Sprinkle Pop, PEEPS, Melissa’s Produce, and Adams Extracts for generously providing the prizes free of charge. These wonderful companies also supplied the bloggers with samples and products to use for their #SpringSweetsWeek recipes. All opinions expressed in this post are my own. The #SpringSweetsWeek giveaway is open to residents of the United States who are 18 years of age or older. All entries for the winner will be diligently checked and verified. By entering, participants grant the right to use their name and likeness. The odds of winning are determined by the number of eligible entries received. Eight (8) winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the respective giveaway sponsors. The #SpringSweetsWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members residing in their household are not eligible to enter or win the giveaway. No purchase is necessary to enter. This promotion is void where prohibited by law. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, or any other social channel mentioned in the #SpringSweetsWeek posts or entry.