The Ultimate Copycat Magnolia Banana Pudding Recipe — A Bakery-Style Classic You Can Make at Home

If you’ve ever wandered through the streets of New York City, you’ve likely been tempted by the world-famous Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding. Its creamy layers of whipped vanilla pudding, perfectly ripe bananas, and those iconic vanilla wafers have earned it a cult following — and for good reason!

But what if I told you that you can recreate this crowd-pleaser right in your own kitchen? This Copycat Magnolia Banana Pudding recipe is easy, no-bake, and guaranteed to steal the show at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, potluck, or a cozy family dinner, this luscious layered dessert is always a hit!

Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Copycat Magnolia Banana Pudding

Bakery-Quality at Home: Indulge in the rich, fluffy texture and iconic flavor without boarding a plane to NYC.

No-Bake Perfection: No need to preheat the oven — just a few mixing bowls, a whisk, and some chill time.

Crowd-Pleasing Classic: This dessert’s light sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a favorite for adults and kids alike.

Copycat Magnolia Banana Pudding Ingredients

• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk

• ½ cup very cold water

• 1 cup very cold milk

• 3.4 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix

• 3 cups heavy whipping cream

• ½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring

• 12 ounces vanilla wafers (reserve 5-6 wafers for garnish)

• 5 barely ripe bananas, sliced

Step-By-Step Directions

1️⃣ Whip Up the Pudding Base

Using a handheld or stand mixer, combine sweetened condensed milk, cold water, and cold milk in a mixing bowl. Beat on low to medium speed for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Add the vanilla pudding mix and continue beating for another 2 minutes until the mixture just starts to thicken. Refrigerate the pudding base for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure it’s fully set.

2️⃣ Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a clean bowl, combine heavy whipping cream and clear vanilla flavoring. Beat on high until stiff peaks form — the whipped cream should be fluffy yet stable.

3️⃣ Fold & Combine

Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture. Take your time to blend until there are no streaks, creating a light, airy texture reminiscent of Magnolia’s signature style.

4️⃣ Layer the Dessert

In a large serving bowl or a beautiful glass compote dish, create the first layer:

• Line the bottom with about ⅓ of the vanilla wafers.

• Top with 1½ cups of sliced bananas.

• Spoon ⅓ of the pudding mixture over the bananas.

Repeat until you have three dreamy layers of wafers, bananas, and pudding.

5️⃣ The Final Touch

Crush the reserved 5-6 vanilla wafers and sprinkle them generously over the top. You can also add any extra crumbs from the wafer box for a charming homemade touch. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions & Tips

• Chill Time: For the best flavor and texture, let the pudding chill for at least 4 hours after layering — overnight is even better!

• Banana Selection: Use barely ripe bananas for the ideal balance of flavor and firmness. Overripe bananas may turn mushy.

• Presentation: A clear trifle bowl shows off those gorgeous layers — perfect for a dinner party centerpiece.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Magnolia Banana Pudding is everything you love about the bakery classic, made easy and accessible for the home cook. Each spoonful delivers the perfect blend of creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped cream, sweet bananas, and tender wafers. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special celebration or an indulgent weekend treat, this recipe will quickly earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.

✨ Pro Tip: Make a double batch — it disappears fast!