The first time I tasted Chick-fil-A’s banana pudding, I knew I had to recreate it at home. That creamy, dreamy, nostalgia-inducing dessert was all I could think about. So, armed with a mission and a very eager sweet tooth, I set out to make it in my own kitchen. The process filled my house with the incredible, comforting scent of vanilla and ripe bananas—it was pure happiness in a bowl. After a few delightful (and delicious) trials, I finally nailed down a recipe that’s shockingly simple and tastes just like the real deal. It’s become my go-to dessert for everything from weeknight treats to potlucks, and I’m so excited to share it with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re going to love this recipe because it delivers that iconic, crave-worthy Chick-fil-A flavor with minimal fuss and maximum reward. It’s incredibly creamy, perfectly sweet, and has that wonderful contrast of soft pudding, tender bananas, and buttery cookies. Plus, it’s a no-bake wonder that comes together in under 20 minutes of active work. Trust me, when you bring this to the table, the compliments will rain down, and no one will believe how easy it was for you to make.
Ingredients
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 1.5 cups ice-cold water
- 3.5 oz box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 (11-oz) box of Nilla Wafers
- 4-5 large, ripe bananas
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients because a few specifics here make all the difference. That sweetened condensed milk is non-negotiable—it’s the secret to the pudding’s rich, distinct sweetness and luxurious texture. For the bananas, don’t use ones that are still bright yellow and firm. Wait until they’re speckled with brown spots. They’re sweeter, softer, and their flavor is so much more pronounced. And for the cookies, I’ve tried off-brands, but Nilla Wafers truly are the classic choice. Their specific vanilla flavor and texture are integral to the authentic experience.(See the next page below to continue…)