Banana Pudding Layer Cake Recipe

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If you love the nostalgic flavors of classic banana pudding but want to turn it into a show-stopping dessert, this Banana Pudding Layer Cake is exactly what you need. It combines moist French vanilla cake layers with luscious banana pudding, caramel, toasted coconut, and that irresistible crunch of Nilla wafers. Every forkful is a perfect harmony of creamy, sweet, and crunchy textures that will have everyone begging for seconds. This Banana Pudding Layer Cake brings the comfort of homemade banana pudding into a stunning, multi-layered cake that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple with pantry-friendly ingredients, yet each one plays an essential role in creating the rich flavor and delightful texture that define the Banana Pudding Layer Cake. From the moist cake layers to the creamy banana pudding filling, every component is thoughtfully chosen.

• French Vanilla cake mix (30.5 ounces, two boxes): Provides a fluffy, moist base with a subtle vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with banana.
• Eggs (6): Add structure and richness to the cake batter.
• Water (2 cups): Keeps the cake batter light and moist.
• Oil (1 cup): Contributes tenderness and a soft crumb to the cake layers.
• Toasted coconut (2 cups, reserve some for topping): Adds a lovely nutty flavor and subtle crunch to the cake and garnish.
• Caramel sauce (16 ounces): Adds a decadent, sweet depth that enhances the banana flavor beautifully.
• Nilla wafer cookies (5 ounces): Infuse classic banana pudding nostalgia and bring a satisfying crunch.
• Instant Banana Pudding (3.4 ounces): Key to achieving that quintessential banana pudding flavor in the filling.
• Whole milk (2 cups): Helps the pudding set perfectly smooth and creamy.
• Sweetened condensed milk (1 can): Adds luscious sweetness and richness to the pudding.
• Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Brings tang and creaminess to the frosting base, balancing the sweetness.
• Cool Whip (8 ounces, thawed): Lightens the frosting, making it fluffy and airy.
• Unsalted butter (3 cups, softened): The foundation for a rich, silky buttercream frosting.
• Powdered sugar (6 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.
• Pure vanilla extract (3 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors with a sweet, aromatic note.

How to Make Banana Pudding Layer Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven and prepare three round cake pans by greasing and lightly flouring them. Mix the French vanilla cake mix with eggs, water, and oil until everything is perfectly combined. Pour the batter evenly into the pans, then bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. These cake layers form the soft, vanilla-infused foundation of your Banana Pudding Layer Cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Banana Pudding Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding and whole milk until thickened, about two minutes. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk for a sensationally sweet and creamy pudding base. This filling brings that classic banana pudding flavor that makes the cake so special.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

Beat the softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing continuously until smooth and creamy. Then fold in the softened cream cheese and thawed Cool Whip, creating a luscious frosting that spreads like a dream and tastes heavenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of banana pudding filling on top. Sprinkle with toasted coconut and a handful of crushed Nilla wafers for delightful texture. Drizzle caramel sauce over the filling for a luscious touch. Repeat with the remaining cake layers, finishing with the final cake layer on top.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

Cover the entire cake in the creamy cream cheese frosting. Scatter the reserved toasted coconut and additional crushed Nilla wafers on top along with a drizzle of caramel sauce. This final step transforms the Banana Pudding Layer Cake into a gorgeous centerpiece that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Layer Cake

Garnishes

Fresh banana slices, extra toasted coconut, and a drizzle of caramel sauce add an inviting sparkle to the appearance and enhance the rich flavors of your Banana Pudding Layer Cake. Don’t be shy about adding a few whole Nilla wafers on top as a playful, nostalgic nod to this dessert’s inspiration.

Side Dishes

This cake is indulgent on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. A simple fresh fruit salad on the side can add a refreshing contrast that keeps the dessert table interesting and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, consider serving individual portions in clear glass jars or mini trifle cups with layers of cake, pudding, caramel, and coconut for a charming presentation. You can even add a cocktail umbrella for a fun twist! This makes the Banana Pudding Layer Cake portable and perfect for impressing guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover your Banana Pudding Layer Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate. Because of the creamy filling and frosting, the cake stays fresh and moist for up to four days. Let it come to room temperature briefly before slicing to enjoy the full flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake successfully by wrapping it well in several layers of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its texture and taste. Just avoid freezing if you plan on fresh fruit garnishes, as they don’t freeze well.

Reheating

Since this cake is best served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving if taken straight from the fridge. This balance helps the cream cheese frosting soften beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake instead of cake mix?

Absolutely! Homemade vanilla cake layers can make this Banana Pudding Layer Cake even more special, though using a mix saves time. Just ensure the cake is moist but sturdy enough to hold the layers and filling.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

It’s a bit tricky due to the cream cheese, Cool Whip, and milk, but you can substitute with dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives. Make sure any pudding mix you use is also dairy-free.

How long does this cake take to assemble?

Once the cake layers are baked and cooled, assembling and frosting will take about 30 to 40 minutes. The process is straightforward, so it’s great for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Can I prepare the cake a day ahead?

Yes! In fact, making the Banana Pudding Layer Cake a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best way to slice this cake?

Use a sharp, serrated knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry before each cut. This prevents the frosting from tearing and ensures clean slices of this creamy, layered delight.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Banana Pudding Layer Cake, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorites to bake and share. It’s comforting, exciting, and downright delicious, blending the best of cake and classic banana pudding traditions in every bite. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, you’re going to love serving this gorgeous, irresistible cake to family and friends.

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