If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the creamy delight of traditional banana pudding with the rich chill of ice cream and the comforting softness of cake, then this Banana Pudding Ice Cream Cake Recipe is absolutely your new best friend. It’s a marvelous celebration of flavors and textures all rolled into one luscious dessert that’s perfect for warm days, special occasions, or anytime you want to impress with a show-stopping sweet treat. Each bite delivers the familiar sweetness of bananas and vanilla wafers, the smoothness of pudding and cream cheese, plus the cool, dreamy sensation of ice cream, all layered into a cake that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your dessert rotation, and just sharing it feels like a warm hug from the inside out!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round cake with smooth, light cream frosting covering its three layers stands on a white cake stand with a scalloped edge. The bottom third of the cake is coated with crushed golden-brown nuts or crumbs. The top edge of the cake is decorated with swirls of cream, each holding a small round banana chip. The background is a white marbled surface, and the scene includes a yellow bowl with more banana chips and a bunch of bananas. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering fresh, simple ingredients that each bring unique characteristics to the dish is key to nailing this Banana Pudding Ice Cream Cake Recipe. From fluffy cake layers to the creamy pudding filling, every item has a part to play in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and flavor.

Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, 84g): Provides rich moisture and tenderness in the cake layers.
Sugar (3/4 cups plus 1/2 cup, 155g + 104g): Sweetens both the cake and cream cheese filling for a luscious taste.
Sour cream (6 tablespoons, 86g): Adds tang and moistness to keep the cake tender.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons): Boosts the aroma and complements the banana flavor perfectly.
Egg whites (3 large, room temperature): Whisked into the batter to give the cake a light, airy crumb.
All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups, 163g): The structure behind the cake layers.
Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise beautifully.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors subtly without overpowering.
Milk (6 tablespoons plus 3/4 cup, 90ml + 180ml): Moistens the cake and combines with pudding mix.
Water (2 tablespoons, 30ml): Balances the batter consistency.
Dry banana cream instant pudding mix (3.4 oz package): The star flavor component in the ice cream layer.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a rich, tangy base for the pudding cream.
Heavy whipping cream (1 1/2 cups + 2 1/4 cups, divided): Whipped to fluffy peaks for the ice cream and frosting.
Powdered sugar (3/4 cup + 1 cup, divided): Sweetens without grit for luscious whipped cream layers.
Bananas (2 large, chopped): Fresh fruit pieces scattered in the ice cream add real banana freshness.
Vanilla wafers (18 crushed + 1 cup crushed): Adds classic crunch and nostalgic flavor throughout.
Yellow food coloring (10-12 drops): For that sunny pudding-inspired whipped cream frosting color.
Banana chips (9-10, optional): Adds a delightful crisp garnish if you want to get fancy.

How to Make Banana Pudding Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C) and preparing an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease to prevent sticking. Cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy — don’t rush this step, as it’s key for tender cake layers! Next, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract, then gently fold in the egg whites in two batches to maintain a light texture. Combine your dry ingredients separately before alternating them with the milk and water into your wet mixture to create a smooth batter. Pour this batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 29-31 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with just a few crumbs attached. Let the cake cool completely to prepare for the next layer of creamy goodness.

Step 2: Prepare the Banana Cream Ice Cream Filling

While the cake cools, it’s time to craft that dreamy ice cream layer. Whisk together the milk with the dry banana cream pudding mix until smooth and thickened. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until silky, then stir in the pudding mixture thoroughly. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar to firm peaks and gently fold one-third of it into your cream cheese base before folding in the rest for a light, luscious texture. To add delightful bursts of flavor and crunch, fold in half of the chopped bananas and a third of the crushed vanilla wafers. This mixture is where the magic truly shines for the Banana Pudding Ice Cream Cake Recipe.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Line the sides of your springform pan with parchment paper that extends beyond the rim, allowing you to easily lift the cake when it’s frozen. Trim the dome off your cooled cake and slice it horizontally into two even layers. Place the first cake layer into the pan, then scatter half of the remaining banana pieces and crushed wafers over the cake for texture and bursts of freshness. Spread half of your creamy ice cream filling evenly on top, then sprinkle the remaining banana chunks and wafers, gently pressing them into the ice cream. Add the second cake layer on top, and freeze the entire cake for 6-8 hours or overnight until firm.

Step 4: Frosting and Final Touches

To make that iconic banana pudding frosting, whip the remaining cold heavy cream with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and yellow food coloring until stiff peaks form, creating a soft golden hue reminiscent of classic pudding. Frost the outside of the frozen cake smoothly, then pipe a decorative border along the top edges. For the finishing flourish, press crushed vanilla wafer crumbs onto the sides for nostalgic crunch and add banana chips on top for a stunning presentation and bite. Freeze again until you’re ready to serve, allowing the cake to thaw just 45 minutes to an hour before slicing for the best creamy consistency.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Ice Cream Cake Recipe

This image shows a tall, round cake on a white cake stand with white marbled texture underneath. The cake has three main layers: the top and bottom layers are light beige sponge cake, and the middle layer is thick and creamy pale yellow with small chunks inside. The outside of the cake is covered in smooth white frosting. Around the bottom edge of the cake, there is a crumbly light brown crust. On top, there are evenly spaced swirls of white cream frosting, each topped with a thin curved banana chip. A slice has been removed from the cake, revealing the inside layers clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh banana slices, extra vanilla wafers, or banana chips add beautiful texture and complement the creamy layers perfectly. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel makes it eye-catching and irresistibly inviting. Garnishes aren’t just decoration — they add bursts of flavor that make every bite even more fun.

Side Dishes

This dessert is a star on its own, but pairing it with fresh berries or a simple fruit salad can brighten the experience with refreshing contrast. A cup of strong coffee or lightly brewed tea also balances the sweetness beautifully, elevating your dessert experience to a whole new level.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices on pretty dessert plates with a small scoop of extra vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side for indulgence. For a party, make mini individual servings using clear glasses or jars to showcase the layered beauty. You could also pipe whipped cream rosettes on top and add edible flowers for an elegant touch that wows your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers covered tightly in the freezer or fridge depending on how soon you plan to serve them. This cake keeps its texture best when frozen, so wrapping it with plastic wrap and storing it in an airtight container helps prevent freezer burn and preserves the flavors.

Freezing

This Banana Pudding Ice Cream Cake Recipe is a fantastic make-ahead dessert because it freezes beautifully. After assembling and frosting, freeze it for up to 2 weeks for convenience. Remember to wrap it tightly to keep out any stray odors and moisture. When ready, thaw it gently in the fridge to preserve the creamy texture.

Reheating

Since this dessert involves ice cream and cream cheese layers, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, allow it to thaw at room temperature for about 45 minutes to an hour before serving so the layers soften to perfect scoopable consistency without losing their structure.

FAQs

Can I use regular pudding instead of instant banana pudding mix?

Instant pudding mix is preferred because it sets quickly and blends smoothly into the ice cream filling, ensuring the right texture and flavor. Using regular pudding would require extra cooking and might alter the consistency.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

If a springform pan isn’t available, use a cake pan lined with plastic wrap or parchment paper extending above the edges so you can carefully lift the cake out after freezing. Cake collars are also an excellent alternative to help build the cake securely.

Can I substitute bananas with other fruits?

While bananas give this recipe its signature flavor, you can experiment with other soft fruits like strawberries or peaches for a different twist, but be mindful that it will stray from the classic taste expected in the Banana Pudding Ice Cream Cake Recipe.

How long does it take to prepare this cake?

The active prep time is around 1-2 hours, but because the cake needs at least 6-8 hours to freeze firmly, planning ahead is essential for the best result.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy for creaminess, but you could try substituting with plant-based butter, non-dairy cream cheese, and coconut cream. Keep in mind texture and flavor will differ, so some experimentation may be needed.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Pudding Ice Cream Cake Recipe is such a joyful treat that brings smiles with every slice. It’s a delightfully nostalgic yet sophisticated dessert that feels like a special occasion in every bite. If you love bananas, pudding, and ice cream, you owe it to yourself to try this recipe — it’s a made-from-love masterpiece that will have you reaching for seconds before you know it!