Banana Pudding Milkshakes – The Ultimate Creamy Dessert Twist You Need Now

If you’re a fan of banana pudding and love slurping a thick, frosty shake, then you’re in for a Southern-inspired treat like no other—Banana Pudding Milkshakes. This indulgent dessert drink combines the nostalgic comfort of banana pudding with the cool, creamy richness of a classic milkshake. Whether you’re craving a cozy evening sipper or a summer dessert to wow your guests, this milkshake is the answer.

Made with ripe bananas, vanilla pudding, and ice cream, it’s a flavor-packed experience in a glass. Top it with whipped cream, crushed vanilla wafers, and a few banana slices, and you’ve got a shake that tastes just as good as it looks.

Discover great ideas like these No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies for more banana-themed inspiration:
👉 no-bake-mini-banana-cream-pies

Let’s dive into the creamy, dreamy world of Banana Pudding Milkshakes and learn how to make one that’s better than Chick-fil-A’s.

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PART 1: What Are Banana Pudding Milkshakes?

Understanding the Banana Pudding Milkshake Trend

Banana pudding milkshakes aren’t just a new social media food trend—they’re a mashup of two classic Southern staples: banana pudding and milkshakes. While banana pudding is traditionally made with layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and creamy vanilla custard, the shake version takes all of that goodness and blends it into one thick, drinkable dessert.

This milkshake brings the spoonable flavors of pudding into a sippable format. It’s perfect for warm weather, late-night cravings, or when you want the flavor of a full dessert without all the prep. With just a blender and a few key ingredients, you can whip up this indulgent treat in minutes.

The popularity of banana pudding milkshakes surged with the rise of Chick-fil-A’s Banana Pudding Milkshake, a limited-time offering that became an instant fan favorite. But guess what? Making it at home can be just as delicious—and even more customizable.

Why It’s a Southern-Inspired Favorite

The reason this shake is so beloved, especially in the Southern United States, is because it’s rooted in the flavors many grew up with. Banana pudding has been a potluck staple for generations, and turning it into a milkshake feels like both a nostalgic nod and a modern dessert hack.

Southern cuisine is all about comfort, flavor, and tradition. This shake delivers all three. The banana gives natural sweetness and body. Vanilla pudding adds that creamy mouthfeel. Ice cream turns it into a dessert worth slowing down for. And the crushed cookies? They’re the texture bomb that brings the whole thing together.

It’s a celebration of simplicity, indulgence, and the joy of blending flavors from our childhood into something totally new.

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PART 2: Key Ingredients for the Perfect Banana Pudding Milkshake

Ripe Bananas and Their Creamy Magic

When it comes to flavor and texture, nothing beats a ripe banana. The best banana pudding milkshakes start with bananas that have just the right balance of sweetness and softness. Overripe bananas—those with lots of brown spots—are ideal. They blend easily and bring out a rich, natural banana flavor that makes your shake taste like homemade comfort.

Frozen bananas also work wonders if you’re after a thicker consistency. They chill the shake instantly and add an almost soft-serve texture without extra ice.

Tip: Freeze peeled bananas in chunks ahead of time to save prep work later.

Vanilla Pudding vs Banana Pudding: What’s Best?

This debate is all about depth of flavor. Vanilla pudding adds that familiar creamy richness and keeps the shake balanced, while banana pudding intensifies the banana flavor even more.

Some people love the layered effect of combining both. If you’re using a prepared banana pudding (store-bought or homemade), make sure it’s chilled and smooth before adding it to the blender. Instant pudding mix also works if you prepare it in advance with milk—just let it firm up slightly before blending.

The best option? Try ¼ cup banana pudding and ¼ cup vanilla pudding to get the best of both worlds.

Looking for banana-rich desserts?

👉 cinnamon-sugar-air-fryer-banana-chips

Ice Cream, Milk, and Flavor Boosters

Ice cream is the base of this milkshake’s thickness. Use vanilla ice cream for a classic touch, or banana ice cream if you’re all-in on the flavor. Want to go bolder? Mix in a scoop of toffee, caramel swirl, or even cookie dough ice cream for a gourmet twist.

As for milk, whole milk adds richness, but you can also use oat milk or almond milk if you prefer a dairy-free or lighter version. The key is to start with less milk and add more gradually until you hit your ideal thickness.

Add-ins like a teaspoon of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a drop of banana extract can elevate the flavor without overpowering it.

Craving something decadent to go along with your shake?
👉blue-velvet-brownies

PART 3: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Banana Pudding Milkshakes at Home

Prepping Ingredients for Best Texture

Getting your ingredients ready before blending makes all the difference in flavor and consistency. First, peel and slice two large ripe bananas. If you want your shake extra thick and cold, freeze the banana slices for at least two hours beforehand. This helps create a smooth, ice cream-like texture without watering it down.

Next, make sure your banana pudding is chilled and set—whether you’re using a store-bought version or one you’ve mixed from instant pudding mix. Also, let your ice cream soften slightly so it blends smoothly.

Here’s a prep tip: Keep crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers ready on the side if you’re planning to mix them into the shake or use them for toppings.

Want to balance this creamy treat with something light and fruity?
👉 juicy-pineapple-heaven-cake

Blending Tips for a Thick, Creamy Shake

Once your ingredients are ready, grab your blender and follow these steps:

1. Add the Base: Start with 2 cups of vanilla ice cream, followed by ¾ cup milk. Use less milk for a thicker consistency, or more if you want it easier to sip through a straw.

2. Add Banana and Pudding: Toss in your banana slices and ½ cup banana pudding. If you’re mixing vanilla pudding too, use half-and-half for a layered taste.

3. Flavor Boosters: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Want to level it up? Drop in a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of banana extract.

4. Blend Away: Blend until smooth and creamy. Pulse in crushed cookies at the end if you want a bit of crunch mixed into the shake.

5. Taste Test: Adjust thickness with more milk or ice cream if needed.

This process takes less than 5 minutes, and the result is a decadent, sip-worthy dessert that tastes just like banana pudding—only colder and more fun.

Optional Add-Ins for Flavor & Crunch

To personalize your banana pudding milkshake, try one or more of these:

• Swirls of caramel or chocolate syrup for richness

• Chopped toffee bits or mini chocolate chips for texture

• Coconut flakes for a tropical twist

• Protein powder if you’re looking to turn it into a post-workout reward

Want a fruity pairing with tangy undertones?
👉 blueberry-cheesecake-swirl-cookies

PART 4: Toppings That Take Banana Pudding Milkshakes Over the Top

Whipped Cream, Crushed Cookies & Banana Slices

Once your shake is blended to creamy perfection, the fun begins—toppings are where your banana pudding milkshakes go from delicious to unforgettable.

Start with a swirl of whipped cream for height and richness. Then, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers or graham cracker crumbs across the top. These cookies are not only a nod to classic banana pudding, but also bring that irresistible crunch.

Want to add a visual (and tasty) twist? Layer a few banana slices on top or press them against the inside of a clear glass before pouring in the shake. This adds charm and freshness to your presentation.

Pro Tip: Toast the crushed cookies slightly for deeper flavor, or chill the glasses in advance so the toppings stay firm longer.

Bonus Toppings: Caramel, Chocolate, Toffee Bits & More

If you’re all about elevating your dessert drinks, then toppings are where creativity shines. Banana pudding milkshakes are a blank canvas, and here are a few of the best extras to crown them with:

• Caramel drizzle – brings a buttery sweetness and visual appeal

• Mini chocolate chips – offer texture and a cocoa contrast

• Toffee bits – add crunch and a hint of butterscotch

• Coconut flakes – perfect for a tropical spin

• Cinnamon sugar dusting – a cozy finish

If you’re looking to match this rich shake with a Southern chocolate classic, we’ve got just the thing:
👉 southern-chocolate-cobbler

Want to turn this into an all-out dessert bar idea? Serve toppings buffet-style so everyone can customize their own banana pudding milkshake masterpiece.

PART 5: Banana Pudding Milkshake Variations to Try

Vegan or Dairy-Free Banana Pudding Milkshake

Love banana pudding milkshakes but need a dairy-free twist? You can get all the flavor with none of the dairy. Start with frozen bananas and use a non-dairy vanilla ice cream—coconut or almond milk-based work great. Swap traditional milk for oat or soy milk for added creaminess.

For the pudding, try a vegan instant banana pudding mix. Just prep it with your plant-based milk of choice and chill it before blending. Top with coconut whipped cream and crushed vegan cookies.

Looking for a naturally sweet topping option? These air-fried banana chips are perfect:
👉 cinnamon-sugar-air-fryer-banana-chips

Protein-Packed Banana Pudding Shake

Need a dessert that works for recovery? Add a scoop of banana or vanilla protein powder to your milkshake base. You can also blend in Greek yogurt, almond butter, or even a tablespoon of chia seeds for extra fuel.

This turns your indulgent shake into a post-workout treat that delivers both taste and nutrition. It’s the best way to enjoy banana pudding milkshakes and fuel up at the same time.

Boozy Banana Pudding Milkshake for Adults

Hosting brunch or a cozy night in? Take your shake up a notch by blending in banana liqueur, spiced rum, or a splash of bourbon. The richness of the alcohol pairs beautifully with the sweet, creamy banana flavor.

Top it off with whipped cream and caramel drizzle. Serve in a chilled glass rimmed with crushed cookies for an unforgettable adult dessert.

Want a unique pairing? Serve it with this lush Southern chocolate treat:
👉 southern-chocolate-cobbler

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PART 6: Chick-fil-A Banana Pudding Milkshake – What’s In It?

Copycat Recipe Breakdown

Chick-fil-A’s seasonal banana pudding milkshakes have earned cult status. Rich, creamy, and nostalgic, their version blends soft serve ice cream, banana pudding, banana puree, and crushed cookies.

You can recreate it with:

• 2 scoops vanilla ice cream

• ½ cup chilled banana pudding

• 1 ripe banana

• ¼ cup crushed vanilla wafers

• Topped with whipped cream and a cherry

Blend until thick. Use frozen bananas to mimic Chick-fil-A’s dense consistency.

For banana pudding inspiration, check out this fun no-bake dessert:
👉 no-bake-mini-banana-cream-pies

How to Recreate the Texture and Flavor

To really match Chick-fil-A’s signature taste, blend slowly and use minimal milk. Add a pinch of salt or banana extract to enhance that nostalgic flavor.

Using layered pudding (vanilla + banana) can also round out the sweetness and make your banana pudding milkshakes taste just like the drive-thru version—if not better.

Want to add a bold dessert pairing? Try this gooey velvet treat:

👉 blue-velvet-brownies

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PART 7: Banana Milkshake vs Banana Pudding Milkshake

Ingredient Differences Explained

Though the names sound similar, banana milkshakes and banana pudding milkshakes aren’t the same drink. A basic banana milkshake typically includes bananas, milk, and ice cream. It’s light, fruity, and simple—a great quick-fix dessert or breakfast smoothie.

On the other hand, banana pudding milkshakes add depth and creaminess by including banana pudding (or vanilla pudding), often with extras like crushed cookies and whipped cream. The pudding changes the texture dramatically, turning it into a richer, spoonable dessert drink.

Craving a banana dessert that falls somewhere in between? Try this dreamy tropical cake loaded with fruity goodness:
👉 juicy-pineapple-heaven-cake

Flavor & Texture Comparison Guide

A classic banana milkshake is typically lighter and more banana-forward. It blends easily and feels refreshing. In contrast, banana pudding milkshakes are thicker, creamier, and more decadent—thanks to the pudding base and additional mix-ins like cookies or toffee bits.

Think of banana milkshakes as the refreshing cousin, and banana pudding milkshakes as the indulgent, dessert-style version. One could replace a smoothie; the other replaces a slice of cake.

If you want a dessert-style shake that goes beyond fruity freshness, banana pudding milkshakes are the way to go.

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PART 8: Best Types of Milk for Banana Pudding Milkshakes

Whole Milk, Oat Milk, Almond Milk & More

Choosing the right milk affects the final thickness and flavor of your shake. Traditional banana pudding milkshakes usually rely on whole milk for creaminess. But if you’re dairy-free or just want a different taste, there are plenty of alternatives.

• Oat milk: smooth, thick, and naturally sweet—great for texture
• Almond milk: light and nutty, perfect if you want to cut calories
• Coconut milk: adds a tropical twist and pairs beautifully with bananas
• Cashew milk: rich and silky, great for thickness without dairy

Whichever milk you choose, always start with a small amount and adjust as needed to reach your preferred consistency.

Need an easy banana dessert to pair with this shake?
👉 blueberry-cheesecake-swirl-cookies

How Different Milks Impact Thickness and Taste

Dairy milk tends to produce the thickest result, especially when paired with ice cream and pudding. But for a lighter, still-creamy finish, oat milk is a strong contender. If you want a hint of coconut or nuttiness, non-dairy options will add a subtle flavor layer that works beautifully in banana pudding milkshakes.

Pro tip: chill your milk beforehand so your shake stays cold and thick without needing ice.

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PART 9: Serving Ideas, Storage Tips & Make-Ahead Options

How to Serve Banana Pudding Milkshakes Like a Pro

Serving banana pudding milkshakes the right way can make your dessert feel extra special—whether you’re preparing it for guests, family, or yourself. Start by using chilled tall glasses or mason jars to help maintain the shake’s thickness. Swirl a bit of caramel or chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring in the milkshake for a dramatic look.

Next, layer crushed vanilla wafers at the bottom for a surprise crunch. Fill with the blended shake, then top with whipped cream, banana slices, cookie crumbles, and a cherry. Want even more flair? Garnish with a cookie on the rim or a caramel drizzle over the top.

Hosting a dessert bar? Offer a “shake station” with various toppings so guests can personalize their own banana pudding milkshakes.

Can You Store or Freeze Banana Milkshakes?

While these milkshakes are best served fresh, you can store them for short periods with the right method. Pour leftover milkshake into a mason jar or an airtight container and place it in the freezer. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes and re-blend to restore texture.

If you’re prepping ahead, you can blend the base (banana, pudding, ice cream, and milk) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just hold off on adding crushed cookies or toppings until you’re ready to serve to keep them from getting soggy.

Looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that stores well and pairs beautifully with banana drinks? Try this light and easy no-bake treat:
👉 https://kinsleyrecipes.com/no-bake-mini-banana-cream-pies/

Tips for Batch Prep and Parties

For larger gatherings, double or triple your shake base ingredients and blend in batches. Keep the blended mix cold in the freezer, and stir well between servings to maintain smoothness.

You can even freeze shake portions in ice cube trays when you’re ready to serve, blend the cubes with a splash of milk for a just-made texture. It’s a genius way to prep banana pudding milkshakes in advance without losing their creamy appeal.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Pudding Milkshakes

What is a Banana Pudding Milkshake?

A banana pudding milkshake is a creamy dessert drink that blends ripe bananas, vanilla or banana pudding, ice cream, and milk. It’s inspired by the classic Southern banana pudding dessert but transformed into a thick, sippable shake. Topped with whipped cream, crushed cookies, and banana slices, it delivers all the nostalgic flavor in a chilled, drinkable format.

What is in the Chick-fil-A Banana Pudding Milkshake?

Chick-fil-A’s version of the banana pudding milkshake features vanilla soft serve, banana pudding flavoring, real banana puree, crushed vanilla wafers, and whipped topping. It’s a limited-edition item that became a fan favorite. You can easily recreate it at home by blending vanilla ice cream, banana pudding, milk, and crushed cookies, then topping it with whipped cream and a cherry.

Want to copy that flavor at home with a twist? Try this cookie-inspired pairing:
👉 blueberry-cheesecake-swirl-cookies

How do you make a banana milkshake?

A basic banana milkshake blends together ripe bananas, ice cream, and milk. You can make it in under 5 minutes by adding those three ingredients to a blender and mixing until smooth. For more dessert-style flavor, you can include vanilla extract, cinnamon, or even a spoonful of peanut butter.

If you’re aiming for a more indulgent twist, transform your regular banana milkshake into a banana pudding milkshake by adding banana or vanilla pudding to the mix.

What milk goes in banana pudding?

Traditional banana pudding recipes use whole milk for richness and texture. However, you can use alternative milks like almond, oat, coconut, or soy milk depending on your dietary needs or taste preferences. For banana pudding milkshakes, the type of milk you choose impacts the creaminess—whole or oat milk delivers the best texture, while almond or coconut milk brings lighter, nuttier flavor.

Looking for a decadent Southern-inspired dessert to enjoy with your milkshake?
👉 southern-chocolate-cobbler

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Conclusion: Sip Into Comfort With Banana Pudding Milkshakes

Whether you’re chasing nostalgia or just craving a cool, creamy dessert drink, banana pudding milkshakes offer the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and indulgence. With ripe bananas, velvety pudding, and scoops of vanilla ice cream, this shake captures everything you love about banana pudding—only better, because it comes with a straw.

From vegan twists to protein upgrades, and even boozy adult versions, this milkshake is endlessly customizable. And with just a few ingredients and a blender, you can have a restaurant-worthy dessert ready in under 10 minutes.

So next time you’re hosting a party, looking for a sweet treat, or just want to relive the taste of childhood, make yourself a banana pudding milkshake. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Don’t miss our other refreshing dessert beverages to explore more flavor-packed drink ideas:
👉 cinnamon-sugar-air-fryer-banana-chips

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