Banana Pudding Cake Recipe for Easy and Delicious Home Baking

If you love classic banana pudding and rich, tender layer cakes, this Banana Pudding Cake brings the best of both worlds together in one unforgettable dessert. Soft banana-flavored cake layers, fresh sliced bananas, creamy vanilla pudding filling, and a fluffy Cool Whip frosting make this cake pure comfort with a nostalgic Southern twist.

This is the kind of cake that shows up at birthdays, family gatherings, church events, and special occasions. It looks impressive, tastes incredible, and yet comes together with simple ingredients and familiar flavors everyone loves.

Flavor & Texture Highlights

This cake is light, moist, and tender with a gentle banana flavor baked right into the layers. The vanilla pudding filling adds creamy richness, while fresh bananas bring natural sweetness and freshness. Finished with a cloud-like whipped topping, every bite is soft, smooth, and perfectly balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding Cake

Classic flavor: Inspired by traditional banana pudding everyone knows and loves.
Ultra moist layers: Banana pudding mix and milk keep the cake soft and tender.
Perfect for celebrations: A true crowd-pleaser for parties and holidays.
Make-ahead friendly: Even better after chilling in the fridge.
No heavy frosting: Light whipped topping keeps it fresh, not overly sweet.

What You’ll Need

The full ingredient list with exact measurements is available in the recipe card below.

Butter and sugar
Eggs and egg whites
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Instant banana pudding mix
Milk
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Cool Whip or whipped cream
Sweetened condensed milk
Fresh bananas

How to Make Banana Pudding Cake

For full step-by-step instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom.

You’ll start by baking three soft banana cake layers. Once cooled, the layers are brushed with a light milk mixture, then filled with fresh banana slices and creamy vanilla pudding filling. The entire cake is finished with a fluffy Cool Whip frosting and optional vanilla wafer topping for that classic banana pudding touch.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigeration is required: This cake contains pudding, whipped topping, and fresh bananas.
Fridge: Store covered for up to 3 days.
Make ahead: Assemble the cake the day before serving for best flavor and texture.
Freezing: Not recommended due to bananas and whipped topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular pudding instead of sugar-free?

Yes, regular instant pudding works perfectly. The sugar-free version simply reduces sweetness slightly.

Do I have to use Cool Whip?

No. Homemade stabilized whipped cream works well if you prefer.

How do I keep bananas from browning?

Assemble the cake close to serving time or lightly brush banana slices with lemon juice before layering.

Can I bake this in two layers instead of three?

Yes. Use two thicker layers and adjust baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Banana Pudding Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert—soft cake, creamy filling, fresh bananas, and light whipped frosting all in one beautiful slice. It’s nostalgic, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for special occasions or anytime you want a dessert that truly feels homemade and heartfelt.