If you’ve ever strolled through the streets of New York City, chances are you’ve heard of Magnolia Bakery’s legendary banana pudding — the dessert that has taken over the internet, from TikTok to Pinterest. Known for its light, creamy texture and irresistible layers of bananas and vanilla wafers, this treat is both nostalgic and luxurious. The best part? You can recreate it right at home with simple ingredients and a few easy steps.
🥣 What Makes Magnolia Bakery’s Banana Pudding So Special?
Unlike regular puddings, Magnolia Bakery’s version combines whipped cream, vanilla pudding, and condensed milk, creating a texture that’s airy yet rich. The secret lies in the layering technique — soft vanilla wafers that soak up the cream, paired with perfectly ripe bananas, giving every bite a melt-in-the-mouth experience.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the authentic Magnolia Bakery-style banana pudding at home, gather the following ingredients:
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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1½ cups cold water
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1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
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3 cups heavy whipping cream
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1 box vanilla wafers (like Nilla wafers)
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4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
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A pinch of salt (optional)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vanilla Pudding Base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and cold water until smooth. Add the instant pudding mix and continue whisking for 2–3 minutes. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to thicken.
2. Whip the Cream
Using a hand or stand mixer, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. The cream should be fluffy but not too stiff.
3. Fold and Combine
Once the pudding base has set, gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture. This step gives that signature Magnolia Bakery texture — light, airy, and cloud-like.
4. Layer the Pudding
In a glass bowl or dessert cups, start layering:
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A layer of vanilla wafers
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A layer of sliced bananas
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A generous layer of pudding mixture
Repeat the layers until you reach the top. Make sure the final layer is pudding for a smooth finish.
5. Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate the pudding for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results. This resting time allows the wafers to soften and blend beautifully with the creamy pudding.
🍌 Pro Tips for the Perfect Pudding
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Use ripe but firm bananas — overly ripe ones can turn mushy.
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Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s what gives the dessert its authentic bakery texture.
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For extra flavor, sprinkle crushed wafers or cinnamon on top before serving.
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Serve in mini mason jars for a Pinterest-worthy presentation.
🧁 Variations to Try
Want to get creative? Try these fun twists:
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Chocolate Banana Pudding: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between each section.
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Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix a tablespoon of peanut butter into the whipped cream for a nutty flavor.
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Berry Bliss: Add a few blueberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast.
📦 Storage Instructions
Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The wafers will continue to soften, making it even creamier with time. Avoid freezing, as the texture can become watery.
❤️ Why Everyone Loves This Dessert
Magnolia Bakery’s banana pudding isn’t just a dessert — it’s a comfort food with personality. Each bite feels like a hug from a classic NYC bakery, bringing together nostalgia, sweetness, and simplicity. Whether you’re hosting a dinner, preparing a holiday dessert, or just treating yourself, this pudding always delivers a crowd-pleasing result.
