Let’s talk about one of the best-kept secrets for dessert lovers; the banana pudding milkshake from Chick-fil-A. If you've ever been lucky enough to try it (or heard the buzz from those who have), you know it’s a next-level treat that’s rich, creamy, and downright unforgettable. But here’s the best part—you don’t have to chase down a secret menu or sit through a drive-thru to get that same flavor rush.
With just a few pantry staples and five minutes, you can blend up your own banana pudding milkshake that’s every bit as indulgent (dare I say, even better) than the restaurant version. This isn’t just any milkshake; it’s a creamy, dreamy fusion of real bananas, silky vanilla pudding, and those classic vanilla wafers that bring all the nostalgic Southern charm right to your glass.
What truly sets this banana pudding milkshake apart is the texture and depth of flavor; it’s smooth yet satisfying, familiar yet just elevated enough to feel special. I’ve been testing and tweaking this recipe for years to strike that perfect harmony between the comforting taste of banana pudding and the refreshing chill of a well-made milkshake.
Whether you’re craving something sweet on a summer afternoon or need a feel-good pick-me-up any day of the week, this banana pudding milkshake delivers everything you’re looking for; flavor, comfort, and a touch of Southern magic.
Why This Banana Pudding Milkshake Recipe Stands Out
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill banana milkshake; this is a banana pudding milkshake with heart, history, and a whole lot of flavor. Inspired by the Southern classic that’s been passed down through generations, this drink captures everything you love about traditional banana pudding—the sweet vanilla wafers, soft banana slices, and creamy custard, and blends it all into a rich, refreshing dessert drink you can sip through a straw.
What makes this banana pudding milkshake truly special is how it bridges two worlds: the cozy, nostalgic vibes of a homemade pudding and the frosty, indulgent texture of a milkshake. It’s a drink that delivers dessert in its most craveable form; cool, creamy, and layered with flavor.
I’ve found that this banana pudding milkshake pairs beautifully with comfort food staples; think crispy fried chicken, juicy burgers, or smoky barbecue. But it also shines as a standalone treat, perfect for family gatherings, summer cookouts, or simply when you’re in the mood for a feel-good drink that tastes like a hug in a glass.
No need to head to a drive-thru or scroll through secret menu hacks; this banana pudding milkshake brings Southern charm and sweet satisfaction straight to your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, there’s no going back to plain old banana milkshakes.
Jump to:
Ingredients
- Ripe bananas (spotted for maximum sweetness)
- Vanilla ice cream (premium brands work best)
- Milk (whole milk creates the richest texture)
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (the secret to that pudding flavor)
- Vanilla wafer cookies (Nilla Wafers are the classic choice)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Vanilla extract
- Crushed vanilla wafers (for garnish)
- Banana slice (for garnish)
- Drizzle of caramel sauce (optional)
See recipe card for quantities.
Why These Ingredients Matter
Every element in this banana pudding milkshake has a purpose, and when you combine them just right, the result is a creamy, nostalgic dessert that truly delivers.
- Ripe bananas: Those spotty bananas you might be tempted to toss? They’re gold here. Overripe bananas bring out a deeper, naturally sweet flavor that gives your banana pudding milkshake its signature richness without needing extra sugar.
- Vanilla pudding mix: This is the not-so-secret weapon. It transforms a basic banana shake into a full-on banana pudding milkshake experience by mimicking the creamy custard flavor of traditional Southern banana pudding.
- Vanilla wafer cookies: These cookies aren’t just a garnish—they’re the soul of the recipe. Crushed or blended, they bring that classic texture and flavor that fans of banana pudding instantly recognize and crave.
- Premium vanilla ice cream: Go for quality here. A richer ice cream (think higher fat content) creates that thick, luscious consistency that makes your banana pudding milkshake feel like it came straight out of a restaurant or better.
Ingredient Substitutions
Need to tweak the recipe to fit your lifestyle? No problem. Here are easy swaps that keep the magic alive:
- For a lighter version: Replace the ice cream with frozen yogurt and swap in skim milk for a less decadent but still tasty shake.
- Dairy-free option: Use plant-based vanilla ice cream and almond or oat milk. The flavor still shines through, and you won’t miss the dairy one bit.
- Gluten-free needs: Sub in gluten-free vanilla wafers or graham crackers. You’ll still get that signature cookie crumble with none of the gluten.
- Lower sugar alternative: Try sugar-free pudding mix and no-sugar-added ice cream. The bananas offer enough sweetness to balance things out naturally.
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
- Cut bananas into chunks and place them in the freezer for 30 minutes (not completely frozen, just chilled).
- Set aside 2-3 vanilla wafers for the final garnish.
- Have your blender ready and make sure it's clean and dry.
Create the Base Mixture
- Add milk and instant vanilla pudding mix to the blender.
- Pulse for 10-15 seconds until just combined.
- Let sit for 1 minute to allow the pudding mix to slightly thicken the milk.
Pro tip: This quick rest helps the pudding flavors bloom and creates that authentic banana pudding taste.
Build Your Banana Pudding Milkshake
- Add the banana chunks to the blender with the milk mixture.
- Add the vanilla extract.
- Crumble 8-10 vanilla wafers and add them to the blender.
- Add the vanilla ice cream.
Time-saving tip: Let your ice cream sit out for 5 minutes to soften slightly—this makes blending easier and prevents overworking your blender.
Blend to Perfection
- Blend on low speed for 15 seconds to break down the ingredients.
- Increase to medium speed for another 15-30 seconds until smooth.
- If the shake is too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, add more ice cream.
Expert tip: Don't over-blend! Stop when the shake is smooth but still thick. Over-blending warms the mixture and creates a thinner consistency.
Serve and Garnish
- Pour the finished milkshake into tall glasses.
- Top with a swirl of whipped cream.
- Crush the remaining vanilla wafers and sprinkle on top.
- Add a banana slice to the rim of the glass.
- For extra decadence, drizzle with caramel sauce.
Presentation tip: Chill your serving glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before pouring for a professional touch that keeps your shake colder longer.
- Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather and prep your ingredients, freeze banana chunks and set cookies aside.
- Step 2: Create the Base Mixture
Combine milk and pudding mix to build your flavor base.
- Step 3: Build Your Banana Pudding Milkshake
Add the main ingredients to the blender to build your milkshake.
- Step 4: Blend to Perfection
Blend until smooth and thick, don’t overdo it to keep that creamy texture.
Expert Cooking Tips
Want to take your banana pudding milkshake from good to absolutely unforgettable? These insider tricks will help you master the texture, flavor, and balance like a seasoned pro:
- Restaurant-quality upgrade: Here’s a little-known trick for mimicking that ultra-creamy Chick-fil-A texture; add a spoonful of cream cheese (about 2 tablespoons) to the blender. It creates a subtle tang and velvety body that takes your banana pudding milkshake to the next level.to link out to another blogger with a similar recipe that fits a different diet.
- Banana ripeness matters: Don’t reach for just-yellow bananas; the riper, the better. Bananas with brown spots pack a stronger, sweeter flavor and make your banana pudding milkshake naturally rich without needing extra sugar.
- Cookie texture secret: To mimic the layered texture of real banana pudding, don’t blend all the cookies. Stir a few roughly crushed wafer pieces into the milkshake just before serving for that satisfying bite and crunch in every sip.
- Thickening trick: Want your milkshake extra thick without watering it down with too much ice cream? Slice and freeze your bananas ahead of time. It not only boosts the creaminess but also intensifies the banana flavor.
Recipe Variations & Dietary Modifications
The beauty of a banana pudding milkshake is how flexible it can be. Whether you're going all-in on indulgence or looking for a lighter, plant-based option, there’s a version to match your cravings (and your pantry). Here are some creative twists to try:
Southern Banana Pudding Milkshake Deluxe
Looking to impress? Drizzle in some homemade caramel sauce and fold in soft chunks of banana bread just before serving. This version transforms your banana pudding milkshake into a decadent, spoon-worthy dessert that’s perfect for guests—or just treating yourself
Healthy Banana Pudding Smoothie Version
Craving the flavor but want to keep things light? Try this smoothie-inspired take on the classic:
- Swap ice cream for Greek yogurt
- Use a sugar-free pudding mix
- Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder
- Replace regular milk with almond milk
It still tastes like a banana pudding milkshake, just with a more virtuous twist.
Chocolate Banana Pudding Milkshake
Yes, chocolate lovers, there’s a version for you too. For a rich and velvety spin:
- Swap the vanilla pudding mix for chocolate
- Add a couple tablespoons of chocolate syrup into the blender
The result is a double-flavor delight: part banana pudding milkshake, part chocolate dream.
Vegan Banana Pudding Shake
No dairy? No problem. This vegan version is just as creamy and satisfying:
- Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream
- Swap in almond, oat, or coconut milk
- Choose vegan vanilla cookies
- Replace pudding mix with a blend of cornstarch, sugar, and vanilla extract for that thick, pudding-like finish
With this option, everyone gets to enjoy a spoonful (or sip) of nostalgia.k)
Equipment
- Nice addition: Tall milkshake glasses enhance the presentation and experience.
- High-powered blender: A good blender makes all the difference for achieving that smooth, creamy texture without chunks.
- Budget alternative: An immersion blender works too, though you'll need to use a deep container.
- Must-have: Long milkshake spoons to enjoy all those delicious cookie pieces.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
While nothing beats a freshly blended banana pudding milkshake, there are a few smart ways to make your life easier if you're prepping ahead or dealing with leftovers. Here’s how to keep that flavor and texture as close to perfect as possible:
- Immediate Enjoyment
For the best taste and texture, sip your banana pudding milkshake right after blending. The ice cream base starts to melt quickly, and that dreamy pudding-like consistency can separate if it sits too long. - Fridge Storage
If you happen to have leftovers (rare, but it happens), pour the remaining banana pudding milkshake into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just know that the texture won’t be quite the same. When you're ready to enjoy it again, re-blend it with a splash of milk to bring back that smooth, creamy consistency. - Make-Ahead Option
Want to have milkshakes on demand? Here's a simple trick: create banana prep packs by slicing ripe bananas and freezing them in individual bags along with a scoop of pudding mix. When the craving strikes, just grab a pack, add ice cream and milk, and blend up your banana pudding milkshake in no time, no peeling or measuring needed.
The Southern Secret That Changes Everything
Here’s a little trick passed down from a Southern neighbor who swore by old-school flavor magic—and once you try it, you’ll never make a banana pudding milkshake the same way again.
The night before you plan to blend, tuck your vanilla wafers into a sealed container with nothing but a banana peel. That’s it. No mess, no prep—just patience. By morning, those cookies will have soaked up the natural banana aroma, softening just enough and tasting like they’ve been layered in pudding overnight.
It’s a subtle move, but it gives your banana pudding milkshake an uncanny, authentic flavor that rivals the Chick-fil-A classic. Trust me; it's a game-changer in a glass.
FAQ
ruWhat is in Chick-fil-A Banana Pudding Milkshake?
Chick-fil-A's banana pudding milkshake was a beloved secret menu item that combined classic vanilla ice cream, fresh banana flavor, crushed Nilla Wafers, and whipped cream, often topped with a cherry. The flavor was inspired by Southern-style banana pudding and delivered in milkshake form, which is exactly what this homemade banana pudding milkshake recipe aims to replicate (and maybe even improve!).
How long ago did Chick-fil-A have the banana pudding shake?
The banana pudding milkshake made its appearance at Chick-fil-A around 2010 as a limited-time offering. Since then, it's occasionally popped up on secret menus or as a nostalgic topic among fans. While it’s no longer officially available, this homemade banana pudding milkshake brings that iconic flavor right to your kitchen.
How to make banana milkshake at home?
A basic banana milkshake is made by blending ripe bananas with milk, ice cream, and a touch of vanilla extract. But if you're craving something more nostalgic and dessert-like, turn it into a banana pudding milkshake by adding instant vanilla pudding mix and crushed vanilla wafer cookies. It’s a simple twist that makes all the difference.
Is a banana milkshake healthy?
It depends on how you make it. A classic banana milkshake made with fruit, milk, and minimal sweeteners can be a nutritious snack or breakfast option. However, a banana pudding milkshake leans more into indulgent dessert territory, especially with ingredients like pudding mix, ice cream, and cookies. That said, it’s perfect for a special treat or comfort-food moment, and with a few smart substitutions, it can be lightened up to suit your preferences.
The Shake That Stole My Southern Heart
If you ask me, this homemade banana pudding milkshake is pure dessert magic, it’s where creamy milkshake meets classic Southern comfort in one nostalgic, slurpable treat. You get the smooth banana flavor, the cozy vanilla pudding base, and those familiar vanilla wafers that somehow taste like childhood and summer afternoons all at once.
The best part? You don’t need to chase down a secret Chick-fil-A menu item. You can whip this up anytime, customize it however your sweet tooth demands, and enjoy it right in your own kitchen (possibly in your pajamas—no judgment here).
And if you're on a roll with dessert drinks and cozy recipes, you’ve got to check out my Korean Banana Milk Recipe, a sweet, mellow sip with a creamy twist—or go full comfort mode with my Chocolate Rice Pudding Recipe, rich and satisfying with just the right hint of cocoa.
So, what’s your favorite milkshake flavor to blend at home? Let me know in the comments, and if you give this banana pudding milkshake a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turns out!
Related
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Banana Pudding Milkshake Recipe:
Banana Pudding Milkshake Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Blender
- 2 Tall Glasses
- Measuring cups
- Small Bowls
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas chopped, slightly frozen for thickness
- 3 cups vanilla ice cream premium or full-fat preferred
- 0.5 cup milk whole milk recommended
- 2 tablespoon instant vanilla pudding mix for classic pudding flavor
- 10 vanilla wafer cookies Nilla Wafers or similar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoon whipped cream optional, for topping
- 1 tablespoon crushed vanilla wafers for garnish
- 1 slice banana for garnish
- 1 tablespoon caramel sauce optional, drizzle on top
Instructions
- Freeze banana chunks and set aside 2–3 wafers for topping.
- Blend milk and pudding mix; let sit for 1 minute to thicken slightly.
- Add bananas, vanilla, crumbled wafers, and ice cream to blender.
- Blend in short bursts until smooth and thick.
- Pour into glasses; top with whipped cream, crushed wafers, banana slice, and caramel.
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