Chick-fil-A Banana Pudding Treat

Chick-fil-A banana pudding gets rave reviews for its creamy layers and nostalgic Southern flair. This make-ahead dessert uses pantry basics with a few key tricks to mimic that signature flavor. It is cool rich not overly sweet and honestly tastes like a hug in a bowl. I grew up eating banana pudding at family gatherings and this version has quickly become our new favorite for holidays and potlucks.

I first whipped this up for a summer barbecue after missing Chick-fil-A’s seasonal treat. It disappeared within minutes people kept asking for the recipe years later I still get requests for it at every birthday party.

Ingredients

• Sweetened condensed milk: gives the pudding richness and classic custard flavor look for cans with simple ingredients for the cleanest taste
• Ice cold water: helps set the pudding faster and ensures a silky texture
• Instant vanilla pudding box: keeps prep easy but pick a well-reviewed brand for best flavor and color
• Heavy cream: is whipped to soft peaks for airy fluffiness go for high-fat cream from a local dairy if you can
• Marshmallow fluff: brings the signature fluffy finish and subtle sweetness try to use a fresh jar so it blends easily
• Bananas: should be just barely ripe with minimal brown spots for best structure and flavor
• Nilla Wafers: create the essential cookie layers look for a box with crisp whole wafers for pretty presentation

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Base:

In a large bowl pour the sweetened condensed milk and ice-cold water together. Using a sturdy whisk mix until they are completely blended and smooth. Then sprinkle in instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk extremely well so there are no lumps. Cover tightly and let it chill in your fridge for about four hours. This extended chill time is what gives the pudding its signature thick and creamy texture.

Whip the Cream:

In another large bowl start whipping the heavy cream with a mixer set on medium. Continue mixing until the cream reaches soft peaks that gently fall when lifted. At this stage add the marshmallow fluff by spoonfuls and increase the speed. Keep whipping just until the mixture is glossy and holds stiff peaks. Do not overwhip as that will turn the cream grainy.

Combine Cream and Pudding:

Gently add the whipped cream mixture into the chilled pudding a little at a time. Use a spatula and slow folding motions working from the outside toward the center. This step preserves all the air you created and gives the pudding its airy yet thick texture. Mix until you see only a few streaks and all blends smoothly.

Layer the Pudding:

Get out a 9x13 baking dish or a large deep glass bowl for a traditional look. Create a single layer of Nilla Wafers at the bottom with their rounded side up. Slice bananas thinly and arrange over the wafers. Spoon a third of the cream mixture over the bananas spreading to the edges. Repeat the layering process wafers bananas cream until you have three full layers with the cream finishing on top.

Final Touch and Chill:

For extra flair crush a few Nilla Wafers and sprinkle the crumbs evenly over the pudding. Cover tightly and return to the fridge for at least four hours to let the flavors meld and the dessert firm up. Overnight chilling works even better and makes slicing neat and easy.

One of my favorite ingredients in this recipe is marshmallow fluff because it gives the pudding a light whipped sweetness you just cannot get from whipped cream alone. When my niece helped layer the wafers for the first time she felt so proud and now it is our special bonding activity every holiday.

Storage Tips

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. For best texture enjoy within two to three days. If you notice moisture pooling at the edges simply dab it away with a paper towel before serving. For longer storage banana slices may darken but the taste remains spot on.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out the marshmallow fluff for extra whipped cream if needed though you will miss a bit of that sweet lift. Vanilla instant pudding is classic but banana pudding works for a deeper flavor. For a more rustic finish use shortbread cookies instead of Nilla Wafers.

Serving Suggestions

Scoop the pudding into individual ramekins or glasses for neat presentation at parties. A little fresh grated nutmeg or cinnamon sprinkled on top brings warmth. Some fresh strawberries or blueberries on the side add color and tang.

This pudding captures all the comfort of Southern banana pudding in a cool creamy bite. Serve it anywhere and it will always be the first dish to disappear.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep bananas from browning?

Use barely ripe bananas and assemble just before chilling. A quick dip in lemon juice also helps preserve color.

→ Can I substitute wafer cookies?

Yes, other vanilla cookies or shortbread slices can be used if Nilla wafers are unavailable.

→ How far ahead can this be made?

Prepare up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Layers meld flavors without becoming soggy.

→ What makes the texture so creamy?

A blend of sweetened condensed milk, pudding mix, and softly whipped cream ensures a smooth mouthfeel.

→ How should I decorate the top?

Sprinkle crushed wafers or add extra banana slices for a classic finish before serving.