Imagine biting into a creamy, dreamy frozen treat that captures all the warmth and comfort of classic Southern dessert—but in popsicle form! This Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe takes the beloved flavors of banana pudding and transforms them into a refreshing, handheld delight perfect for sunny afternoons or anytime you crave a nostalgic yet fun frozen snack. With ripe bananas, smooth pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers, it’s a simple yet irresistible recipe you’ll want to share with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe plays a crucial role, blending creamy textures and sweet flavors with just the right touch of crunch. These simple essentials come together to create a balanced, luscious treat that’s both rich and refreshing.
- 2 ripe bananas: Their natural sweetness and creamy texture form the base of the popsicles.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds smoothness and helps blend all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Enhances the richness and creamy mouthfeel.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Provides the perfect level of sweetness and luxurious density.
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix: A key ingredient for that classic banana pudding flavor and thick texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts the vanilla notes for a rounder, more fragrant flavor.
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers: Adds crunch and that signature cookie component to the popsicles.
- Extra crushed wafers for garnish (optional): For a pretty, textural finishing touch on top.
How to Make Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Base
Start by placing your bananas, whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, and vanilla extract in a blender. Blend these ingredients on high until the mixture is smooth and thickened, which usually takes about a minute or two. This ensures all the flavors meld beautifully and the texture is perfectly creamy.
Step 2: Fold in the Crushed Wafers
Once your creamy base is ready, gently stir in the crushed vanilla wafers by hand. This is the moment when that iconic crunch is incorporated, providing contrast to the silky mixture. Be careful not to over-mix—the bits of cookies should remain distinct and add texture to your popsicles.
Step 3: Pour Into Molds
Carefully pour the mixture into your popsicle molds, leaving a small space at the top to allow for expansion as they freeze. If you like, sprinkle a few extra crushed wafers on top for a little added crunch and visual appeal before inserting the sticks.
Step 4: Freeze Until Solid
Place the molds in the freezer and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until completely solid. Patience is key here, but the end result is worth every minute—a perfectly set, creamy popsicle that’s ready for you to enjoy.
Step 5: Unmold and Enjoy
When you’re ready to serve, run warm water over the outside of the popsicle molds for a few seconds. This makes it easy to gently pull the popsicles out without any breakage. Now you have yourself a delicious Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe treat that’s ready to savor!
How to Serve Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe
Garnishes
A quick sprinkle of extra crushed vanilla wafers or a small banana slice on top elevates presentation and flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a few mini chocolate chips make for a delightful surprise with every bite.
Side Dishes
These popsicles pair wonderfully with light summer salads, fresh fruit bowls, or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert spread. They also complement a picnic or barbecue perfectly as a cool, satisfying finale.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering banana slices or extra crushed vanilla wafers in the popsicle molds for a pretty swirl effect before freezing. Another fun idea is to serve the popsicles on a bed of crushed ice with mint leaves for a fresh, poppin’ presentation that’ll impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten popsicles in an airtight container or tightly covered popsicle molds in the freezer to maintain their creamy texture and prevent freezer burn. Stored properly, they stay delicious for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing
The Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe requires freezing for at least 6 hours to set fully. For best results, freeze overnight if possible, ensuring a perfect, firm texture that you can enjoy anytime.
Reheating
Since these popsicles are meant to be enjoyed frozen, there’s no reheating involved. However, letting them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes makes them easier to bite into without losing their icy charm.
FAQs
Can I use yogurt instead of instant pudding mix?
Absolutely! Using vanilla yogurt will give you a lighter, tangier version of the Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe. It won’t be as thick as with pudding mix but is a great alternative for a lower-calorie option.
How many popsicles does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 8 popsicles, perfect for sharing with friends or family at your next get-together or for treating yourself throughout the week.
Can I make these popsicles vegan?
To make a vegan version, try substituting the whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, use a vegan pudding mix, and replace sweetened condensed milk with a vegan option or coconut cream with a little sweetener.
How do I prevent ice crystals from forming?
Using sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream helps keep the texture creamy and minimize ice crystals. Make sure to blend everything thoroughly and freeze in a well-sealed container to reduce exposure to air.
Can I add other flavors to this recipe?
Yes! Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, swirl in some caramel sauce, or mix in fresh berries for a fun twist. The Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe is quite versatile and welcomes your creativity.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun, nostalgic, and absolutely delicious frozen treat, this Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe is a must-try. It’s easy to make, delightfully creamy, and packed with the flavors we all love from traditional banana pudding. Give it a go this weekend and watch how quickly these frozen goodies disappear!
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Banana Pudding Popsicles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 popsicles
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Pudding Popsicles are a creamy, dreamy frozen dessert combining ripe bananas, classic vanilla pudding flavors, and the delightful crunch of vanilla wafers. Perfect for a refreshing summer treat, they blend rich dairy ingredients with the sweet, comforting taste of banana pudding, all frozen into easy-to-enjoy popsicles.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers
- Extra crushed vanilla wafers for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a blender, combine the bananas, whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and thickened, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Incorporate vanilla wafers: Remove the blended mixture from the blender and gently stir in the crushed vanilla wafers by hand to maintain the texture of the wafers within the creamy base.
- Fill popsicle molds: Pour the pudding mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a small gap at the top to allow expansion during freezing. For added texture and presentation, sprinkle extra crushed vanilla wafers on top before inserting the popsicle sticks.
- Freeze the popsicles: Place the molds in the freezer and freeze for at least 6 hours or until completely solid. This step is essential to achieve the perfect popsicle consistency.
- Remove and serve: When ready to enjoy, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds to loosen the popsicles, then gently pull them out. Serve immediately and enjoy the cool, creamy banana pudding flavor combined with the crunch of vanilla wafers.
Notes
- You can substitute instant vanilla pudding mix with vanilla yogurt for a lighter version of these popsicles.
- For a layered effect, add extra banana slices or crushed vanilla wafers between pours when filling the molds.
- Store leftover popsicles in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
