Instant Pot Banana Pudding

This Instant Pot banana pudding is pure comfort in a bowl and a spot on shortcut for making a classic Southern style treat at home. No need to fuss with stovetop stirring or long waits the creamy custard comes together right in your Instant Pot layering beautifully with ripe bananas and crunchy vanilla wafers. It is honestly my go to when sweet cravings hit or when I am feeding a crowd at a picnic.

I first discovered this method after a summer road trip through the South. Now my friends ask for it at every gathering and my kids say it tastes like home.

Ingredients

• Whole milk: delivers a silky creamy pudding so look for full fat and fresh local milk if available
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the pudding without overwhelming the banana flavor I always buy cane sugar for best results
• Cornstarch: thickens the base for that signature Southern custard look for fine powder without clumps
• Salt: balances all the sweet elements I use fine sea salt
• Large eggs: help set the pudding and add richness use fresh eggs for best texture
• Pure vanilla extract: provides that deep bakery flavor use pure over imitation if possible
• Unsalted butter: adds silkiness and shine to your finished pudding European butter gives a richer flavor
• Vanilla wafer cookies: bring crunch and soak up the pudding deliciously I always check for golden color and crispness
• Ripe bananas: should have plenty of brown spots for sweetness but still be firm for slicing
• Heavy whipping cream: makes the topping dreamy pick cold cream with a high butterfat content for easy whipping
• Powdered sugar: sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream use one without cornstarch for the silkiest texture

Instructions

Mix the Pudding Base:

Whisk together milk sugar cornstarch salt and eggs in a mixing bowl until completely smooth and lump free This keeps the pudding silky and avoids pockets of dry starch or egg

Prep for Instant Pot:

Pour this mixture into a heatproof bowl that fits inside your Instant Pot using the pot in pot method Cover the bowl extra tight with foil to protect your pudding from extra moisture and make for an even set

Set Up the Instant Pot:

Add water to the Instant Pot liner just enough to reach the trivet Place your covered bowl on top so the steam surrounds the pudding gently while it cooks

Pressure Cook and Release:

Seal the lid and cook on Manual or Pressure Cook for ten minutes Let the pot sit for another ten minutes for a natural release before safely quick releasing any left over pressure

Finish the Pudding Mix In:

Carefully take out your bowl and whisk the pudding until smooth Blending in butter and vanilla at the end gives extra gloss and deep flavor

Let the Pudding Cool:

Allow the custard to sit for ten to fifteen minutes Stir every few minutes so a skin does not form

Layer the Dessert:

In your trifle dish or cups add a layer of wafers then a layer of banana slices then a generous scoop of warm pudding Repeat this process ending with pudding on top

Chill the Dessert:

Pop the whole thing in the refrigerator for at least one hour so the flavors meld and the pudding sets

Make Whipped Cream:

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar to soft peaks for a light billowy topping

Add Final Touches:

Top each pudding with a dollop of fresh whipped cream Garnish with extra wafer cookies and banana slices right before serving for the best look and texture

Save

My favorite part is sneaking the extra cookies from the box while the pudding sets The scent of vanilla always reminds me of helping my grandma layer banana slices after Sunday dinner and I love that this recipe lets me relive those warm memories with my own kids

Storage Tips

Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate They will keep fresh for up to three days Though the cookies soften over time that creamy texture with soft cake like wafers is a highlight on its own

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out vanilla wafers for shortbread or graham crackers if that is what you have on hand For a dairy free batch try unsweetened almond milk and coconut whipped topping though it will not be quite as rich

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pudding chilled straight from the fridge for the ultimate summer treat If you are feeling extra festive top with toasted pecans or a drizzle of salted caramel

Cultural Historical Context

Banana pudding has roots in Southern hospitality Think church socials barbecue picnics and holiday potlucks Instant Pot versions make this old fashioned favorite weeknight easy perfect for busy cooks keeping tradition modern

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer swap bananas for strawberries or blueberries for a berry twist Use holiday spice mixes like cinnamon or nutmeg in fall for a cozy touch Mini individual parfaits are always a crowd pleaser at Easter and graduation parties

Success Stories

Friends have told me this is their new favorite dessert for busy family nights And it is so approachable that even new cooks feel confident giving it a go

Freezer Meal Conversion

It is best enjoyed fresh but you can freeze the cooked pudding base without the wafers or bananas Defrost in the fridge then layer with cookies fruit and whipped cream just before serving

Save

This pudding brings nostalgia and Southern charm to your table. Make it once and you will return to it for every cookout or family gathering.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent lumps in the pudding base?

Whisk milk, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and eggs thoroughly before cooking to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and chill the layers up to one day ahead. Add whipped cream just before serving for best results.

→ How do I substitute vanilla wafers?

Shortbread cookies or graham crackers work well as alternatives, giving a different but delicious texture and flavor.

→ Is it possible to lighten this dessert?

Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat whipped topping to lower calories without sacrificing creamy consistency.

→ Which Instant Pot size is recommended?

A 6-quart or larger Instant Pot is ideal, offering enough space for the pot-in-pot method and safe cooking.

→ What allergens are present?

Dairy, eggs, and gluten are included; check cookie labels for potential soy or nut traces.