This Banana Pudding Tiramisu is a creamy, dreamy fusion of two classic desserts — the rich Italian tiramisu and the comforting Southern-style banana pudding. With layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, luscious banana cream, and soft banana slices, it’s the perfect dessert for coffee lovers and banana fans alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combines the best of two beloved desserts in one irresistible treat.
No baking required — perfect for warm days or easy entertaining.
Creamy, fluffy, and loaded with banana flavor.
Can be made ahead of time for convenience.
Customizable with or without coffee, depending on your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• 1 package (225 g) mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1 block (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 can (400 g) condensed milk
• 1 package (96 g) instant banana pudding mix
• 1 ½ cups cold milk
• 1 ½ cups cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups chilled coffee or espresso (can substitute with milk if preferred)
• 1 package ladyfinger biscuits (about 24 pieces)
• 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
• Cocoa powder or crushed vanilla cookies, for garnish
Directions
Prepare the banana cream:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and mascarpone together until smooth. Add the condensed milk, instant banana pudding mix, and milk. Continue beating until thick and creamy.
Whip the cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the cream with the vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the banana mixture until fully combined.
Assemble the tiramisu:
Quickly dip each ladyfinger biscuit into the chilled coffee or milk, ensuring they absorb moisture without becoming soggy. Arrange one layer of ladyfingers in a 23×23 cm (9×9 inch) dish. Spread half of the banana cream mixture over the biscuits, then layer with sliced bananas. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, banana cream, and more banana slices.
Chill:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Serve:
Just before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder or sprinkle crushed vanilla cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
Servings and timing
Serves: 8 people
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours (or overnight for best results)
Total time: Approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes
Variations
Coffee-free version: Substitute the coffee with milk or a mix of milk and banana extract for a purely banana flavor.
Chocolate twist: Add a layer of chocolate shavings or drizzle chocolate syrup between layers.
Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts between the layers for added texture.
Mini desserts: Assemble in individual dessert cups or jars for easy serving and presentation.
Lighter version: Use low-fat cream cheese, light condensed milk, or whipped topping instead of cream.
Storage/Reheating
Store Banana Pudding Tiramisu in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Because it contains dairy and fresh bananas, it’s best enjoyed within this time. This dessert should not be frozen, as freezing can alter the creamy texture and cause the bananas to darken. Serve chilled straight from the fridge — no reheating required.
FAQs
How long does Banana Pudding Tiramisu last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days when properly covered and refrigerated.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when made the night before, as the flavors develop and the layers set beautifully.
What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?
You can substitute with extra cream cheese or a mix of cream cheese and heavy cream for a similar texture.
Do I have to use coffee in this recipe?
No, you can replace coffee with milk or even banana-flavored milk for a caffeine-free version.
Can I use homemade banana pudding instead of instant mix?
Absolutely, just ensure it’s thick and cooled before mixing with the other ingredients.
How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?
Lightly coat banana slices with lemon juice before layering to slow oxidation.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cake alternatives.
What if I don’t have ladyfingers?
You can use sponge cake, vanilla wafers, or graham crackers as substitutes.
Can I freeze Banana Pudding Tiramisu?
It’s not recommended since the texture changes and bananas may darken once thawed.
Can I add flavor extracts for a twist?
Yes, try a touch of caramel, hazelnut, or banana extract in the cream for extra flavor depth.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding Tiramisu is an elegant yet comforting dessert that blends the best of two classics. With creamy layers, soft bananas, and the subtle richness of coffee or milk, this no-bake treat is perfect for any occasion — from family gatherings to dinner parties. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat.
A no-bake fusion dessert combining classic Italian tiramisu with Southern banana pudding. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy banana-flavored filling, and fresh banana slices create a rich and comforting treat.
Ingredients
1 package (225 g) mascarpone cheese, softened
1 block (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1 can (400 g) condensed milk
1 package (96 g) instant banana pudding mix
1½ cups cold milk
1½ cups cream
2 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups chilled coffee or espresso (or milk for a non-coffee version)
1 package ladyfinger biscuits (about 24 pieces)
3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
Cocoa powder or crushed vanilla cookies, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the banana cream: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and mascarpone until smooth. Add condensed milk, banana pudding mix, and milk. Beat until thick and creamy.
Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Fold into the banana mixture.
Assemble the tiramisu: Dip ladyfingers quickly in chilled coffee or milk and layer in a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) dish. Spread half the banana cream over, then layer with banana slices. Repeat layers.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Serve: Dust with cocoa powder or sprinkle crushed vanilla cookies before serving.
Notes
Use milk instead of coffee for a caffeine-free version.
Lightly coat banana slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Can be made a day ahead for best flavor and texture.
Not suitable for freezing due to fresh bananas and dairy.
