Easy No-Bake Individual Desserts

These Easy No-Bake Individual Desserts are creamy, layered banana pudding cups that I love to whip up when I want something simple yet impressive. With layers of pudding, bananas, and cookies topped with fluffy whipped cream, they’re perfect for parties, weeknight desserts, or anytime I crave something sweet without turning on the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, requires no baking, and looks elegant when served in individual cups or jars. The combination of creamy pudding, soft bananas, and crunchy cookies creates a texture that feels both light and indulgent. I also love that I can make them ahead of time, which makes entertaining stress-free.

Ingredients

1 (5-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 cup heavy cream, whipped (or 1 tub whipped topping)
4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
30–35 vanilla wafer cookies (or butter cookies)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for sweetening whipped cream)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Extra cookies and whipped cream for garnish

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, I whisk the pudding mix with cold milk until smooth and thickened, then let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. If I’m making fresh whipped cream, I beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
3. I gently fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding to create a light, creamy filling.
4. In individual cups or jars, I start with a layer of cookies, followed by a layer of banana slices, then spoon some pudding mixture on top.
5. I repeat the layers until the cups are full, finishing with pudding.
6. I top each dessert with a dollop of the remaining whipped cream and garnish with extra cookies or banana slices.
7. I refrigerate the cups for at least 1 hour before serving so the cookies soften slightly.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 individual desserts, depending on the size of the cups.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: about 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I swap the vanilla pudding for banana or cheesecake pudding for a different flavor. I also like to add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce between the layers. For a fruity twist, I mix in sliced strawberries or blueberries with the bananas. When I want more crunch, I sprinkle crushed cookies or granola on top just before serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store these desserts in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. The bananas may brown slightly over time, so I make them as close to serving as possible. I don’t reheat these since they’re meant to be enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Can I make these desserts a day ahead?

Yes, I often make them the night before, but I add the banana slices just before layering to keep them fresh.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

Yes, Cool Whip or any tub whipped topping works perfectly.

How do I keep bananas from browning?

I dip banana slices lightly in lemon juice to slow browning before layering.

Can I use different cookies?

Yes, I’ve used shortbread, graham crackers, and butter cookies, and they all work well.

Can I make these in a large dish instead of cups?

Yes, I layer everything in a trifle dish or 9×13 pan for a family-style version.

Do the cookies stay crunchy?

They soften slightly after chilling, which I love because it creates a cake-like texture.

Can I add other fruit?

Yes, strawberries, blueberries, or peaches taste great in this dessert.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I use dairy-free pudding mix, plant-based milk, and coconut whipped cream.

Can I freeze these desserts?

I don’t recommend freezing because the bananas don’t thaw well and the texture changes.

How do I garnish these desserts nicely?

I top each with a swirl of whipped cream, a cookie, and a banana slice for a pretty finish.

Conclusion

I love how these Easy No-Bake Individual Desserts turn a few simple ingredients into a creamy, layered treat. They’re quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for making ahead. Whether I serve them for a casual family night or a festive gathering, they always feel special and satisfying.

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