Old School Banana Pudding Cake

Old School Banana Pudding Cake is a nostalgic Southern dessert that layers moist yellow cake, banana slices, vanilla pudding, and whipped topping. It’s inspired by the classic banana pudding but elevated into a crowd-pleasing cake form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is incredibly moist, flavorful, and packed with banana and vanilla goodness. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or Sunday dinners. The textures—creamy pudding, fluffy cake, and tender bananas—come together in a way that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Yellow cake mix (or homemade yellow cake)
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Water or milk
• Ripe bananas, sliced
• Instant vanilla pudding mix
• Cold milk (for pudding)
• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• Vanilla wafers (crushed, for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven and prepare cake mix according to package or recipe instructions. Bake in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cool completely.
2. While cake is cooling, prepare instant pudding with cold milk and chill until set.
3. Once cake is cool, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the top.
4. Spread pudding evenly over the cake, pushing it into the holes.
5. Layer banana slices on top of pudding.
6. Spread whipped topping over the bananas to cover completely.
7. Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the top.
8. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 12. Prep time: 20 minutes. Bake time: 30 minutes. Chill time: 2 hours. Total: approx. 2 hours 50 minutes.

Variations

• Use homemade vanilla pudding for a richer flavor
• Add cream cheese to the topping layer for extra tang
• Make it into a trifle using cake cubes layered in a bowl
• Substitute banana pudding mix for more banana flavor

Storage/Reheating

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This cake should not be frozen due to the fresh bananas and whipped topping. Best served cold.

FAQs

Can I use banana pudding instead of vanilla?

Yes, for a stronger banana flavor, banana pudding is a great option.

How do I keep the bananas from browning?

Slice and layer just before serving, or brush lightly with lemon juice to slow oxidation.

Can I use homemade cake?

Absolutely—any moist yellow cake recipe works perfectly.

Is this cake served cold or warm?

It should be served cold after chilling, which enhances flavor and texture.

Can I make this a day ahead?

Yes—this cake is ideal for making a day in advance and tastes even better after setting overnight.

What kind of whipped topping should I use?

Use stabilized whipped topping like Cool Whip, or make your own with whipped cream and gelatin.

Do I need to poke holes in the cake?

Yes, this helps the pudding soak into the cake for a moist texture.

Can I use other fruit?

You can, but the traditional recipe calls for bananas to maintain its nostalgic flavor.

What type of milk should I use for pudding?

Whole milk works best for a rich, creamy texture, but 2% is also acceptable.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free vanilla wafers.

Conclusion

Old School Banana Pudding Cake is a delightful throwback dessert that brings together the flavors of banana pudding and classic yellow cake. Creamy, fruity, and indulgent, it’s a surefire hit for any occasion where comfort and sweetness are on the menu.

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