Easy Banana Pudding Cake Recipe (Chilled Icebox-Style Dessert)

ByTheresa Huse
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This banana pudding cake recipe is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert made with soft cake layers, creamy pudding, and fresh bananas. It’s an icebox-style dessert, which means it’s chilled after assembling—making it perfect for make-ahead gatherings, potlucks, or warm-weather treats.

If you love classic banana pudding, this layered version takes it to the next level with a light, fluffy cake base and rich, creamy filling. You can keep it simple with a cake mix or use a homemade cake if you prefer—either way, it comes together easily and tastes amazing.

Whether you’re looking for an easy banana dessert or a chilled cake to serve for spring and summer, this banana pudding cake is one you’ll make again and again. Looking for something else to make? See our icebox cake recipes or our dessert recipes.

    Banana Pudding Cake Recipe

    Easy Dessert Recipe Easy Icebox Cake

    My grandma used to make the best banana cream pie with vanilla wafers. And this easy dessert reminds me so much of that!

    This recipe makes about 8–9 generous slices — perfect for gatherings.

    Ingredients for Banana Pudding Cake

    • 1 box Duncan Hines White Cake Mix (or bake from scratch)
    • 1 package (5.1 oz) Jell-O Instant Banana Cream Pudding & Pie Filling
    • 8 oz. Cool Whip
      (or whipped cream: 1 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp vanilla, 2 Tbsp confectioners’ sugar)
    • 1 cup crumbled Nabisco Nilla Wafers
    • 1–2 fresh bananas
      or strawberries

    Supplies Needed

    How to Make Banana Pudding Cake

    1. Baking the cake: Gather your supplies together and make (and bake)a white cake, then let it cool.
      You can use 8×8 pans, 2 rounds, or a 9×13.
    2. Preparing the Pudding Filling: While it's cooling, you make the banana pudding.
      I used a large box of  Jell-O Pudding and Pie filling. I opted for the quick and easy Jell-O Instant Pudding & Pie Filling Banana Cream.
      If you have time, feel free to cook and cool the pudding, but allow for cooling time.
    3. Assembling the Icebox-Style Cake: Place your cooled cake on a plate and layer the pudding on top.
    4. Next, take bananas, slice them, and layer them across the top of the cake.
    5. After you're done with that layer, add your Cool Whip or (freshly prepared) whipped cream topping over the entire cake in the pan.
    6. Next, break up Vanilla Wafers and cover the top of the whipped cream topping.
    7. Chilling the Cake: Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.
    Banana pudding cake slice showing creamy layers, topped with crumbled Nilla Wafers

    I used Cool Whip Topping vs heavy whipping cream. But, here's how to make whipping cream if you prefer: Whip the heavy cream up in a cold stainless steel bowl. When your heavy cream peaks, add in one teaspoon of vanilla extract and confectioners' sugar to taste. Do not overbeat the whipping cream. 

    Step-by-step collage showing how to make banana pudding icebox cake: baked cake, spreading pudding, adding banana slices, topping with Cool Whip, and sprinkling Nilla Wafers

    Keep your banana cake in the fridge covered until ready to serve.

    8×8 white cake fully baked assembled with banana pudding, sliced bananas, and whipped topped garnished with Vanilla wafers

    How long will this last in the fridge?

    This Banana Pudding Icebox Cake will last a few days in the fridge, covered, if you have leftovers. 

    Slice of banana pudding icebox cake with layers of pudding, bananas, and Cool Whip on a white plate

    My favorite baking pan is this Wilton Perfect Results 8 Inch Square Pan as pictured in the post. 

    Print the Recipe or Pin it for Later

    Yield: 8-9 slices

    Easy Banana Pudding Cake Recipe (Icebox-Style Dessert)

    banana pudding cake on a plate with a fork next to it: white cake topped with banana pudding, bananas, whipped topping and cookie crumbles

    This easy banana pudding cake is a creamy, layered dessert made with soft cake, pudding, and fresh bananas. Chill it in the fridge for an icebox-style treat that’s perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or any make-ahead dessert craving. Simple enough for weeknight baking but impressive enough for special occasions!

    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Cook Time 30 minutes
    Additional Time 2 hours
    Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes

    Ingredients

    Cake Layer

    • 1 box Duncan Hines White Cake Mix (or your favorite white cake)

    Pudding Layer

    • 1 package (5.1 oz) Jell‑O Instant Banana Cream Pudding & Pie Filling or 2 (1.5 oz) packages, combined
    • 2 cups cold milk (for pudding, follow package instructions)

    Fruit Layer

    • 1–2 fresh bananas, sliced

    Topping

    • 8 oz Cool Whip (or more to taste)
    • 1 cup Nabisco Vanilla Wafers, crumbled

    Instructions

    How to Make Banana Pudding Cake

    1. Bake the cake: Prepare your white cake according to the box directions or your favorite recipe. Bake in an 8×8-inch pan at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
    2. Make the pudding: While the cake cools, prepare the instant banana pudding according to package instructions.
    3. Layer the pudding: Spread the banana cream pudding evenly over the cooled cake.
    4. Add the bananas: Peel and slice 1–2 bananas. Layer the banana slices over the pudding to cover the entire cake.
    5. Top with whipped cream: Spread Cool Whip evenly over the bananas.'
    6. Add the crunchy topping: Crumble Nilla wafers and sprinkle them over the top of the whipped cream layer.
    7. Chill before serving: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

    Notes

  1. Note: You can use one 5.1 oz pudding mix or two 1.5 oz packages if that’s what’s available in your area. Both work well for this 8×8 banana pudding cake. Fruit substitutions: You can easily swap the bananas for strawberries, blueberries, or your favorite summer fruit to change up the flavor.
  2. Make-ahead tip: Assemble the cake and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for best results.
  3. Cake options: You can use a boxed cake mix or bake a cake from scratch—both work beautifully.

    4. Recommended Products

    As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Nutrition Information

    Yield

    9

    Serving Size

    1
    Amount Per Serving Calories 187Total Fat 7gSaturated Fat 3gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 5mgSodium 168mgCarbohydrates 28gFiber 0gSugar 12gProtein 4g

    Not all nutritional information is always 100% accurate.

    © Theresa Huse
    Cuisine: American / Category: Baking Recipes

    This is so good!

    Pin it for Later

    image of a slice of banana pudding cake on a plate text overlay with recipe name and bottom image of the cake assembled in a pan ready to serve

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make this banana pudding cake ahead of time?

    Yes! You can assemble the cake and refrigerate it for 2–24 hours before serving. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.

    Can I use homemade cake instead of a boxed mix?

    Absolutely! Any white or yellow cake will work. Just make sure it is fully cooled before layering with the pudding and whipped topping.

    How long will this cake last in the fridge?

    When covered, this banana pudding icebox cake will last 2–3 days in the refrigerator.

    Can I swap the bananas for other fruits?

    Yes! Strawberries, blueberries, or your favorite summer fruit are delicious alternatives.

    What size pudding mix should I use?

    Use one 5.1 oz package of Jell-O Instant Banana Cream Pudding, or combine two 1.5 oz packages to get a similar amount. Both options work well for an 8×8 cake.

    Banana pudding cake after chilling with a slice cut out and a slice of the cake on a plate almost finished.

    More Recipes and Desserts to Make!

    Banana Recipes

    Desserts

    Photographer. Foodie, DIY/Crafter. Mom to 5 who loves to share recipes and creativity...

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    42 Comments

      1. Thanks Meg! It is really easy to put together. If you try it I hope you enjoy making it and eating the cake.

    2. There are tons of variations of this kind of cake, and none of them have ever failed me! 🙂 As a matter of fact, I do have to make a run to the store later. I just might get the ingredients to make this tomorrow.

      -Shelly

      1. Hi Shelly, Yes I agree after seeing the recipe I adapted I have started to notice more of them. It was definitely no fail. Hope you enjoy a yummy dessert soon.

    3. Oh my yum! I think I drooled a little bit…

      1. Hi Roxanne, Thanks for stopping by & hope you get to make something yummy soon.

    4. I have never tried an icebox cake! This one sounds so delicious that I think it will be my first!

      1. Hi Debra, Hope you get a change to make & enjoy one soon.

    5. That looks absolutely amazing! I would rationalize that because the bananas make it healthy, I could eat a few slices!

      1. Hi Lois, I might have to agree with you. Thanks for dropping by.

    6. Oh my goodness, that looks absolutely amazing! I love bananas and banana recipes!

      1. Hi Jaclyn, Thanks for the compliment and visit. Hope you get a chance to make some.

    7. That banana pudding cake looks so amazing!! I can’t wait to try your recipe 😀

      1. Hi Diana, I hope you get a chance to try the recipe. Thanks for the compliment.

      1. Hi Bonnie, Thank you. I hope you make the recipe sometime.

    9. My mom used to make us banana pudding with vanilla wafers when we were kids. I think you just took that recipe to the next level. This looks delicious! Going to have to try this because I think my kids will love it (and if they don’t that means there is more for me)!

      1. Hi Kirsten, I hope you all enjoy it when you make it! Thanks for stopping by & the comment.

      1. Hi Bernadette, Thanks for pinning the recipe and hope you all enjoy it!

    11. That looks delish! I have a banana cake recipe that I bet I could use! I may have to give it a try! Perfect for summer! LOVE it!! Thanks for sharing! 🙂

      1. Hi Phyllis, Thanks. Yes, that sounds yummy too banana cake under all the yummy stuff. Enjoy & I’d love to read your post if you make it.

    12. That looks amazing! I know my kids would love this for a special treat!

      1. Hi Stacey, Thank you! Yes, it’s a kid friendly dessert.

    13. EEK! Banana Pudding Ice box cake?! Yes, please! My husband will die of happiness 🙂 Thanks for sharing!

      1. Hi Erin, Hope you get to make some for him soon. Thanks for stopping by.

      1. Hi Alexandria, Nice to hear. I agree the next time I’m trying it with strawberries. Thanks for stopping by.

    15. I like icebox cakes but I cannot stand bananas I never have, So this cake wouldn’t work for me.

      1. Hi Karissa, Many people don’t like bananas but, you could substitute with strawberries and vanilla pudding. Thanks for stopping by.

    16. I’m not much of a cake person but this does look like an easy recipe to make. I bet it would be a hit at a party!

      1. Thanks for stopping by Pam. You can always skip the cake and make it a pudding trifle.

    17. This looks so yummy! I am a huge fan of banana pudding. I’ve never had a cake version, so I am definitely going to have to try this recipe!

      1. Hi Shelly, Hope you enjoy it when you do! Thanks for stopping by!

    18. Oh my goodness this looks delicious Theresa and it is so easy! I love bananas but my Husband not so much so I am thinking of going the strawberry route! Thanks for the suggestion! Pinning!

      1. Hi Jeannine, Oh yes so easy!! Try strawberries & vanilla pudding. Yum! Thanks for the pin!

    19. Fantastic dessert!! The perfect way is just eating it with a teaspoon right out of the pan

      1. Thanks Winnie! Can’t compare to your delicious recipes though! xo

    20. I am not a banana in cake kinda person, but strawberries – yes please! Sounds nice and easy too 🙂

      1. Hi Donna, We are a house divided so I understand. Strawberries are usually majority pick for us. Thanks for stopping by.

    21. Thank you for sharing this awesome recipe at the #SmallVictoriesSundayLinkup!

      1. Hi Echo, Thanks for hosting. I love sharing when I get the time.

    Comments are closed.