If you love creamy, sweet desserts, this Joanna Gaines Cozy Banana Pudding Recipe is perfect. It’s smooth, soft and full of banana flavor.
You only need a few ingredients and it is easy to make. Layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas and soft vanilla wafers come together to make a dessert everyone will enjoy.
Whether for family dinners or special gatherings, this cozy banana pudding recipe is always a hit. You’ll love how simple and delicious it is.
My Experience With This Joanna Gaines Cozy Banana Pudding
I tried this banana pudding recipe last weekend. The first thing I noticed was how fresh and fragrant it smelled while preparing.
The pudding layer was rich and creamy, while the bananas added a natural sweetness. The vanilla wafers soaked in pudding became soft and tasty.
I loved that it didn’t take long to make, but still felt like a homemade, bakery-style dessert. My family finished it in one sitting!
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Joanna Gaines Cozy Banana Pudding
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8×8-inch serving dish
- Knife for slicing bananas
Ingredients You Need for Joanna Gaines Cozy Banana Pudding
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding
In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, flour and salt. Whisk constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble lightly. - Temper the Eggs
In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly. Then return mixture to saucepan. - Cook Until Thick
Continue cooking the pudding on medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, then stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth. - Layer Vanilla Wafers
Place a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of your serving dish. Make sure they cover the base evenly for a firm foundation. - Add Banana Slices
Arrange half of the banana slices over the wafers layer. Try to make the slices even for consistent flavor in every bite. - Pour Pudding Over Bananas
Pour half of the warm pudding over the banana slices. Spread gently to cover the layer without breaking the bananas. - Repeat Layers
Add another layer of vanilla wafers, remaining banana slices and the remaining pudding. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish. - Chill the Dessert
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This helps the pudding set and the flavors to meld together. - Add Whipped Cream
Before serving, top with whipped cream if desired. Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or a few banana slices for a pretty presentation.
Recipe Tips
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness.
- Stir pudding constantly to avoid lumps.
- Prepare a day ahead for best flavor.
- Use whole milk for a creamier texture.
- Layer carefully to make even bites.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Sugar | 30 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cozy banana pudding chilled from the fridge. Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed wafers for extra texture. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or iced tea.
Best Sides To Serve With
This dessert goes well with simple fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee. Light sides like fresh berries balance the sweetness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze, as the bananas may become mushy.
- Give it a gentle stir before serving if some liquid separates.
Joanna Gaines Cozy Banana Pudding Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Serving dish or glass bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 –4 ripe bananas sliced
- 1 box 11 oz vanilla wafers
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Pudding
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, flour and salt. Whisk constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble lightly.
Temper the Eggs
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly. Then return mixture to saucepan.
Cook Until Thick
- Continue cooking the pudding on medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, then stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Layer Vanilla Wafers
- Place a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of your serving dish. Make sure they cover the base evenly for a firm foundation.
Add Banana Slices
- Arrange half of the banana slices over the wafers layer. Try to make the slices even for consistent flavor in every bite.
Pour Pudding Over Bananas
- Pour half of the warm pudding over the banana slices. Spread gently to cover the layer without breaking the bananas.
Repeat Layers
- Add another layer of vanilla wafers, remaining banana slices and the remaining pudding. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
Chill the Dessert
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This helps the pudding set and the flavors to meld together.
Add Whipped Cream
- Before serving, top with whipped cream if desired. Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or a few banana slices for a pretty presentation.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
- Do not mash bananas, slice them evenly.
- Chill pudding at least two hours for best flavor.
- Store covered in refrigerator up to three days.
FAQs about Joanna Gaines Cozy Banana Pudding
Q: Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk?
A: Yes, but the pudding will be less creamy. Whole milk gives the richest flavor and texture.
Q: How do I prevent bananas from turning brown?
A: Slice bananas just before layering, or brush lightly with lemon juice to slow browning.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Make it the day before. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for best results.
Q: Can I use instant pudding mix instead of homemade?
A: You can, but homemade pudding tastes fresher and has a smoother texture than instant mixes.
Q: Can I add nuts or chocolate?
A: Yes, chopped nuts or chocolate chips can be sprinkled on top for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Joanna Gaines Cozy Banana Pudding Recipe is simple, sweet and comforting. It’s creamy, rich and layered with bananas and wafers.
Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dessert is always a hit. The recipe is easy to follow and will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Everyone will love the smooth pudding, soft bananas and crisp vanilla wafers. Try this recipe today and enjoy a classic southern dessert made cozy and delicious.
This Joanna Gaines Cozy Banana Pudding Recipe shows how easy it is to make a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery. It’s a must-try for any banana pudding lover.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
