Banana Pudding Fluff

Are you craving a light, creamy dessert that you can whip up in minutes? Banana pudding fluff is an irresistible treat packed with sweet banana flavor, fluffy marshmallows, and the crunch of mini vanilla wafers.

A white bowl filled with banana pudding, topped with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, crumbled cookies, and a whole vanilla wafer; bananas and bowls in the background.

Banana pudding fluff isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. You’ll often spot it at summer picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings during the holidays. Its no-bake simplicity makes it a lifesaver when you need something crowd-pleasing but low-effort.

Do you love recipes like this? Make sure to try my recipe for Banana Pudding Cookies, or even Banana Pudding Brownies. They all have that same rich goodness everyone loves.

Ingredients

To save you time, we put together this quick grocery list. Detailed measures are listed in the recipe card below.

Instant Banana Pudding Mix: Choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor and a rich, creamy texture.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamier result, but you can also use skim or plant-based milk to suit your dietary needs.
Cool Whip: Provides a light and fluffy texture that blends perfectly with the pudding for a smooth finish.
Miniature Marshmallows: Adds a touch of sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the creamy pudding.
Nilla Wafers: These classic cookies add a crunchy, sweet layer. Mini vanilla wafers work great too for a bite-sized option.
Fresh Bananas: Choose ripe bananas for optimal sweetness, vibrant flavor, and a fresh, natural touch to the dessert.

See the recipe card below for quantities.

Instructions

This is a quick overview of the steps needed to make this recipe. You can find the full instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

A glass bowl of yellow liquid mixture with a metal whisk inside, next to a bowl of mini marshmallows on a white surface.

Step 1: Mix the Pudding – Whisk the instant banana pudding mix with cold milk in a large bowl. Allow it to set until it thickens.

A glass bowl filled with smooth, creamy mixture sits on a white surface, with bowls of mini marshmallows and vanilla wafers nearby.

Step 2: Fold in Ingredients – Gently fold in Cool Whip until blended, creating that signature fluffy texture. Next, stir in miniature marshmallows, a handful of crushed Nilla Wafers, and freshly sliced bananas.

A glass bowl filled with a mixture of whipped cream and crumbled cookies or wafers on a white surface.

Step 3: Chill and Serve – Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or individual cups. For added flair, sprinkle crushed cookies on top or garnish with a few banana slices. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate before serving.

Storage

Storing – Leftovers (if you’re lucky to have any) should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Banana pudding fluff stays fresh for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the texture of the bananas and Nilla Wafers can soften over time.
Freezing – We don’t recommend freezing banana pudding fluff because the texture can change significantly once thawed.
Reheating – No reheating is necessary here! This recipe is best served chilled straight from the fridge.

What to Serve With Banana Pudding Fluff?

Breakfast: Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee, yogurt with granola, or fresh orange slices for a balanced start to your day.
Lunch: Pair with a light fresh salad like this Antipasto Chopped Salad, or a bowl Instant Pot Turkey Soup to keep things refreshing and satisfying.
Dinner: End your meal with this dessert alongside grilled chicken, Beer Braised Short Ribs, or a hearty bowl of Instant Pot Chili for a comforting finish.

A white bowl filled with a creamy banana pudding dessert topped with mini marshmallows and vanilla wafer cookies. Bananas and a wooden spoon are in the background.

Wendys Tips

For a twist on classic banana pudding, try mixing in different flavors of instant pudding for a fun and unique flavor. Chocolate, vanilla, or even butterscotch would be delicious options.
Get creative with toppings! Whipped cream, chocolate chips, diced bananas, or even mini marshmallows would all make great additions to this dessert.
Want an extra creamy and rich banana pudding fluff? Swap out half of the whipped topping for cream cheese to add a tangy kick.

FAQ

Do you have questions about this recipe? Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

You can substitute Cool Whip with freshly whipped cream, or any whipped topping of your choice.

How do I prevent bananas from browning?

Toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before mixing them in. This keeps them from turning brown and extends the freshness of your pudding fluff mixture.