Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding Recipe

Best Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding Recipe

BySara
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If you’ve ever wished your favorite glazed doughnuts could transform into a creamy, nostalgic dessert, this Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding is your dream come true. Imagine this: soft, pillowy Krispy Kreme doughnuts layered with velvety vanilla pudding, slices of perfectly ripe bananas, and a cloud of fluffy whipped cream, all mingling together in one decadent bite. Each spoonful is a symphony of textures—light and airy, yet rich and indulgent—with just the right amount of sweetness.

This isn’t just banana pudding. It’s a playful reimagining of a beloved Southern classic, swapping the traditional vanilla wafers for Krispy Kreme’s melt-in-your-mouth glazed magic. The doughnuts soak up the pudding to create a tender, cake-like texture while adding a subtle buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the bananas.

Whether you’re looking for the ultimate dessert for potlucks, backyard barbecues, Sunday dinners, or holiday gatherings, this recipe is bound to steal the show. And the best part? It’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. Familiar yet delightfully surprising, Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding is the kind of treat that earns you recipe requests every single time you make it.

Why You’ll Love This Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding

There are plenty of banana pudding recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few irresistible reasons:

  • The Doughnut Factor – Swapping traditional vanilla wafers for fresh Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts adds a decadent layer of flavor and texture.
  • Rich Yet Refreshing – The combination of creamy pudding, airy whipped cream, and fresh bananas makes each bite feel luscious without being too heavy.
  • Easy but Impressive – It’s simple enough for beginner cooks but looks and tastes like something from a high-end bakery.
  • Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert – The flavors only get better as it chills, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time.

Ingredients for Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this unforgettable dessert to life:

For the Pudding Layer:

  • 2 cups whole milk (cold)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 box (5.1 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Layers:

  • 12 fresh Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts (cut into halves or thirds)
  • 5–6 ripe bananas (sliced)
  • Optional garnish: crushed vanilla wafers or extra doughnut crumbs

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding

This dessert comes together in four simple stages: preparing the pudding, whipping the cream, layering the ingredients, and chilling for the perfect texture.

Step 1: Make the Pudding Base

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cold milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and instant vanilla pudding mix.
  2. Whisk for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract and set aside.

Tip: For an extra-smooth pudding, whisk the pudding mixture for a minute, let it sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again before layering.

Step 2: Prepare the Whipped Cream

  1. In a chilled mixing bowl, add heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
  2. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3–4 minutes).

Tip: Make sure your cream is cold; warm cream won’t whip properly.

Step 3: Slice the Bananas and Doughnuts

  • Slice bananas into even rounds (about 1/4 inch thick).
  • Cut Krispy Kreme doughnuts into halves or thirds for easier layering.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

  1. In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, start with a layer of Krispy Kreme doughnuts at the bottom.
  2. Add a layer of banana slices over the doughnuts.
  3. Spread a layer of the pudding mixture on top, smoothing it out with a spatula.
  4. Add a generous layer of whipped cream.
  5. Repeat the layers until your dish is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
  6. Garnish with extra banana slices, crushed vanilla wafers, or small doughnut pieces if desired.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture. The pudding will soak into the doughnuts, creating a soft, cake-like consistency.

Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding

Tips for Perfect Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding

Making this dessert is simple, but if you want it to be truly unforgettable, a few small details can make a big difference:

  • Use Fresh Doughnuts – Fresh Krispy Kremes give the softest, most pillowy texture. Day-old doughnuts still work, but they’ll be a bit firmer, which changes how they soak up the pudding.
  • Prevent Banana Browning – Bananas can brown quickly once sliced. To keep them looking fresh and appealing, lightly toss them in a small amount of lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering. This trick adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness.
  • Don’t Skip the Chill Time – While it’s tempting to dig in right away, chilling for at least 4 hours allows the pudding to set, the flavors to meld, and the doughnuts to become tender and cake-like.
  • Balance the Sweetness – Krispy Kreme doughnuts already pack a sweet punch. If you prefer a more balanced flavor, reduce the powdered sugar in the whipped cream or use unsweetened whipped cream.
  • Enhance the Banana Flavor – For a stronger banana presence, swap the vanilla pudding mix for banana pudding mix, or add a few drops of banana extract to your pudding layer.

Variations to Try

The beauty of Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding is its flexibility. Here are a few creative spins you can try:

  • Chocolate Lover’s Twist – Replace the vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding and add a drizzle of chocolate sauce between the layers for a rich, decadent version.
  • Peanut Butter Banana Pudding – Spread a thin layer of creamy peanut butter over the doughnuts before adding the bananas for a nutty, indulgent twist.
  • Berry Bliss Version – Swap some or all of the bananas for fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness beautifully.
  • Caramel Banana Pudding – Drizzle a ribbon of caramel sauce between layers to add a buttery, toffee-like note.
  • Mini Servings – Assemble individual servings in mason jars, dessert cups, or parfait glasses for parties or picnics. These are not only adorable but also make serving a breeze.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t worry if you don’t have every exact ingredient—this recipe is easy to adapt:

  • Doughnuts – While Krispy Kreme is ideal for their soft, airy texture and signature glaze, you can use any glazed yeast doughnuts you have on hand.
  • Instant Pudding Mix – If you prefer from-scratch pudding, make a homemade custard instead of the instant mix.
  • Whipped Cream – Fresh whipped cream tastes the best, but store-bought whipped topping is a convenient time-saver.
  • Milk – Whole milk is best for richness, but 2%, almond milk, or oat milk can be used. Keep in mind plant-based milks may alter the texture slightly.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. The bananas will soften over time, but the flavor remains delicious.
  • Freezer: This dessert does not freeze well because of the fresh bananas and whipped cream.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the pudding and whipped cream a day in advance, then assemble just before chilling.

Serving Suggestions

Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding is perfect for:

  • Potlucks and family gatherings
  • BBQs and summer picnics
  • Holiday dessert tables
  • Casual weeknight treats when you want something special

Serve chilled in a glass trifle dish to show off the beautiful layers, or scoop into individual cups for easy serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
  • Chill Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
  • Servings: 10–12

Conclusion

Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of comfort, nostalgia, and a little bit of culinary fun. By combining the beloved flavors of classic Southern banana pudding with the irresistible sweetness of Krispy Kreme doughnuts, you get a treat that feels both familiar and brand new. The soft, glazed doughnuts soak up the creamy pudding, the bananas add freshness, and the whipped cream ties it all together into one unforgettable dish.

It’s the kind of recipe that sparks conversation at the table, makes guests ask for seconds, and leaves you with nothing but an empty dish and happy smiles. Whether you make it for a casual weeknight indulgence or as the grand finale to a special occasion, this pudding will always deliver on flavor and charm.

The next time you find yourself with a dozen Krispy Kreme doughnuts—or just an irresistible craving—turn them into this decadent pudding. It’s easy, impressive, and guaranteed to be the dessert everyone talks about long after the last bite is gone.

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