This Banana Pudding Ice Cream is a rich, creamy, and dreamy frozen dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of classic banana pudding with the smooth texture of homemade ice cream. It’s packed with ripe bananas, velvety pudding mix, and crunchy vanilla wafers—making every bite a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No ice cream maker required—just a simple mix and freeze method.
• Combines the comfort of banana pudding with the indulgence of ice cream.
• Perfectly sweet, smooth, and full of real banana flavor.
• Customizable with toppings like caramel drizzle, banana slices, or extra wafers.
• Great for summer gatherings, dessert tables, or a fun family treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafers (plus a few extra for topping)

Directions

1. Make the pudding base:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, banana pudding mix, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas until smooth and thick.
2. Whip the cream:
   In a separate bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Combine:
   Gently fold the whipped cream into the banana pudding mixture until it’s smooth and fluffy.
4. Add wafers:
   Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers, reserving a handful for garnish.
5. Freeze:
   Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container.
   Sprinkle remaining crushed wafers over the top.
   Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight, until firm.
6. Serve:
   Scoop into bowls or cones and top with extra crushed wafers, banana slices, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 8
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Freeze time: 6 hours (or overnight)
• Total time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate twist: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a fun texture.
• Nutty delight: Sprinkle in crushed pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Caramel swirl: Gently swirl in caramel sauce before freezing for extra sweetness.
• Coconut flavor: Substitute part of the heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical version.
• Extra banana flavor: Add ½ teaspoon banana extract if you like a stronger banana taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the ice cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks.
• For the best texture, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping.
• Do not refreeze once it has completely melted—this will affect texture and flavor.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be?

Use ripe bananas with brown spots—they’re sweeter and mash easily, giving the ice cream a rich banana flavor.

Can I use fresh pudding instead of instant mix?

Instant pudding mix is best for this recipe. Regular cooked pudding may make the mixture too thin.

Can I make this without a mixer?

Yes! You can whip the cream by hand using a whisk, though it will take longer (about 8–10 minutes).

Can I use a different flavor pudding mix?

Absolutely—vanilla or coconut pudding mix also works well for a milder flavor.

What if I don’t have vanilla wafers?

You can substitute crushed graham crackers or butter cookies instead.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free condensed milk substitute.

Why is my ice cream too hard after freezing?

Homemade ice cream freezes harder than store-bought. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

How can I prevent ice crystals from forming?

Cover the ice cream with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface before freezing.

Can I make smaller portions?

Yes, simply halve all the ingredients and freeze in smaller containers.

What toppings go well with banana pudding ice cream?

Try caramel drizzle, crushed wafers, banana slices, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra treat.

Conclusion

This Banana Pudding Ice Cream is a delightful, no-churn dessert that captures the comforting flavors of a classic banana pudding in creamy, frozen form. With its smooth texture, sweet banana flavor, and crunchy vanilla wafers, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion—from family gatherings to a simple night in. Serve it in a cone, bowl, or straight from the pan—every bite is pure comfort and joy.

Print