Banana Pudding Ice Cream: A Creamy No-Churn Delight

There’s nothing quite like the golden warmth of summer days, especially when a sweet treat can elevate the experience. I stumbled upon a delightful way to beat the heat while indulging my nostalgia: Banana Pudding Ice Cream. Imagine creamy, luscious scoops that blend the classic goodness of banana pudding with the beloved chill of ice cream. Each scoop is brimming with ripe bananas, swirls of velvety vanilla pudding, and satisfying bits of crunchy Nilla Wafers.

Best of all? This no-churn recipe is perfect for anyone tired of fast food or store-bought desserts, allowing you to create something not just homemade, but also filled with love. Perfect for lazy afternoons or unexpected gatherings, this creamy slice of joy is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to drum up some sweet memories in your kitchen with this easy-to-make treat!

this Recipe

Why is Banana Pudding Ice Cream a Must-Try?

Delightfully simple to prepare, this no-churn recipe will transform your summer days!
Nostalgic flavors combine the beloved essence of banana pudding with the creamy goodness of ice cream.
Quick and easy to whip up, you can impress guests or satisfy cravings without hours of effort.
Versatile enough to adapt with flair, try different pudding flavors or mix in your favorite toppings!
Crowd-pleasing and perfect for gatherings, this sweet treat will bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
Make it a family tradition and enjoy vibrant, homemade dessert moments that rival any fast food option.

Banana Pudding Ice Cream Ingredients

For the Base
• Ripe Bananas – Provides natural sweetness and flavor; overripe bananas enhance sweetness for your Banana Pudding Ice Cream.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creaminess; for a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk.
• Milk – Contributes to a smooth texture; whole milk works best for creaminess.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the ice cream; brown sugar can add a deeper flavor profile.
• Vanilla Pudding Mix – Adds flavor and creamy texture; swap with other flavored pudding for unique twists.

For the Crunch
• Nilla Wafers – Offers nostalgic flavor and crunch; add at the end of churning to maintain their texture.

How to Make Banana Pudding Ice Cream

1. Prep Bananas: Begin by mashing or pureeing the ripe bananas to your desired texture. This will create the sweet base for your Banana Pudding Ice Cream, with ripe bananas enhancing the natural sweetness.

2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla pudding mix until well combined. This mixture should be smooth and creamy, creating the perfect base for your ice cream.

3. Incorporate Bananas: Gently fold the mashed or pureed bananas into the creamy mixture, ensuring even distribution. This allows the banana flavor to be delightful in every scoop of your ice cream.

4. Churn Ice Cream: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency, which typically takes about 25 minutes.

5. Add Wafer Pieces: Towards the end of churning, slowly fold in crushed Nilla Wafer pieces to maintain their crunch. This will give your ice cream that classic nostalgic taste in every bite.

6. Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream to a sealable container and freeze for at least 4 hours for a firmer consistency that’s ready to scoop.

7. Serve: Finally, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones, garnishing with additional banana slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Optional: Drizzle with chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Banana Pudding Ice Cream Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you personalize this delightful recipe! Each twist offers a new exploratory bite that will warm your heart.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and whole milk with almond milk for a rich, vegan-friendly treat.
• Flavor Boosts: Try butterscotch or chocolate pudding mix instead of vanilla for a unique flavor spin. Each variation brings its own delightful twist!
• Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the smooth ice cream.
• Chocolate Swirl: Before freezing, swirl in some chocolate syrup for a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Fruity Twist: Add strawberries or blueberries to the mix for bursts of fresh flavor throughout your ice cream! It’s a fruity explosion in every scoop.
• Spicy Kick: Dust in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that intertwines beautifully with the banana.
• Cookie Crunch: Exchange Nilla Wafers for crushed Oreos or chocolate chip cookies to create a cookie-inspired ice cream that’s full of delightful surprises.
• Coffee Lover’s Dream: Incorporate brewed espresso or instant coffee granules for a mocha-flavored ice cream that awakens the senses with every bite.

Dive in and enjoy your customized creation!

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Pudding Ice Cream preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising taste! You can mash or puree the ripe bananas up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container to prevent browning. The cream mixture (heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla pudding mix) can also be whisked together up to 3 days ahead, refrigerated in a bowl with a lid to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your ice cream, simply combine the prepped banana with the chilled mixture and churn according to instructions. With these easy make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious, homemade ice cream ready with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Banana Pudding Ice Cream

Fridge: Keep any leftover Banana Pudding Ice Cream in the fridge for up to 3 days, but for optimal texture and flavor, it’s best stored in the freezer.

Freezer: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. This ensures your ice cream maintains its creamy texture and delicious flavor.

Reheating: If your ice cream hardens too much, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to achieve the perfect consistency.

Airtight Storage: Always seal the container tightly after each use to prevent freezer burn and keep your Banana Pudding Ice Cream tasting fresh and delightful.

Tips for the Best Banana Pudding Ice Cream

• Perfect Bananas: Use overripe bananas for the sweetest flavor; this enhances the overall taste of your Banana Pudding Ice Cream.

• Churn Time Matters: Don’t rush the churning process; allowing 25 minutes creates the ideal creamy texture, so be patient for that perfect scoop.

• Crunchy Wafer Tips: Add Nilla Wafers towards the end of churning to avoid sogginess, ensuring every bite has a delightful crunch.

• Swirl in Extras: For a richer dessert, swirl in caramel or condensed milk before freezing, enhancing the overall flavor and indulgence.

• No Ice Cream Maker? No problem! Simply whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold it into your banana mixture for a delightful no-churn version.

What to Serve with Banana Pudding Ice Cream?

Summer days are best celebrated with refreshing accompaniments to elevate your delightful dessert.

• Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or blueberries adds a vibrant contrast to the creamy sweetness of the ice cream. A medley of berries brings a fresh and fruity burst, making it the perfect pairing.

• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich chocolate sauce over your Banana Pudding Ice Cream transforms it into an indulgent treat. The luscious chocolate complements the banana flavors wonderfully, creating a satisfying dessert experience.

• Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream enhances the creamy texture of the ice cream. A dollop on top adds a layer of fluffiness that feels elegant and indulgent, making every bite a dreamy delight.

• Caramel Drizzle: A sweet caramel drizzle beautifully marries with the banana pudding flavor. The warm, gooey caramel adds a rich sweetness, enhancing the comfort of each scoop and inviting a nostalgic sensation.

• Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes provide a tropical flair and delightful chewiness. They enhance the indulgence while adding a unique texture, perfect for those who crave an extra layer of flavor in their dessert.

• Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts introduce a crunchy element that complements the creamy banana ice cream. Their earthy flavor adds depth, and the contrast of textures invites a satisfying crunch with each bite.

• Banana Slices: For a refreshing and simple garnish, add fresh banana slices on top of your ice cream. They’ll intensify the banana flavor, giving a layered experience that feels both fresh and indulgent.

• Coffee: A cup of bold, hot coffee serves as an excellent palate cleanser and pairs perfectly with the sweetness of banana pudding ice cream. The warmth and richness of the coffee can enhance the dessert and make for a delightful after-meal treat.

Banana Pudding Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use for my Banana Pudding Ice Cream?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for ripe bananas that are slightly speckled. The natural sweetness enhances the ice cream. If you have overripe bananas with a few dark spots, it’s perfect! Their flavor really shines in this recipe.

How should I store Banana Pudding Ice Cream?
To keep your ice cream fresh, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. I recommend consuming it within 2 weeks for the best flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use to avoid freezer burn.

Can I freeze Banana Pudding Ice Cream?
Yes, indeed! Transfer your churned ice cream into a sealable container and freeze it for at least 4 hours for a firm consistency. If you find it’s frozen too hard, let it sit out for about 5-10 minutes before scooping to achieve that creamy consistency again.

What should I do if my Banana Pudding Ice Cream is too icy?
To prevent icy ice cream, ensure your mixture is well-blended and fully churned for about 25 minutes in your ice cream maker. If you’re still having issues, try adding a little more heavy cream in your mix next time, as fat content helps create a silkier texture.

Is there a dairy-free option for Banana Pudding Ice Cream?
Definitely! For a dairy-free version, you can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. The end result is just as creamy and delightful, with an added touch of tropical flavor that complements the bananas beautifully!

Banana Pudding Ice Cream: A Creamy No-Churn Delight

Enjoy a delightful Banana Pudding Ice Cream that combines the essence of classic banana pudding with creamy ice cream for an unforgettable treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Freezing Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 cups

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Base Ingredients

• 3 medium Ripe Bananas Overripe bananas enhance sweetness.
• 2 cups Heavy Cream For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk.
• 1 cup Milk Whole milk works best for creaminess.
• 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar Brown sugar can add a deeper flavor.
• 1 box Vanilla Pudding Mix Can swap with other pudding flavors.

Crunch Ingredients

• 1 cup Nilla Wafers Add at the end of churning to maintain texture.

Equipment

• Ice Cream Maker
• mixing bowl
• Sealable Container

Method

 

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by mashing or pureeing the ripe bananas to your desired texture.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla pudding mix until well combined.
3. Gently fold the mashed or pureed bananas into the creamy mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
5. Towards the end of churning, slowly fold in crushed Nilla Wafer pieces.
6. Transfer the churned ice cream to a sealable container and freeze for at least 4 hours.
7. Finally, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones, garnishing with additional banana slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 70mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle with chocolate syrup. Ensure to use overripe bananas for best flavor, and add Nilla Wafers at the end of churning to avoid sogginess.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!