If you are a fan of Golden Corral’s dessert buffet, this Golden Corral Banana Pudding Recipe will catch your attention. Creamy and decadent with layers of sweet vanilla wafers, sliced ripe bananas, and lusciously velvety custard, it’s no wonder dessert enthusiasts adore this treat.

Make a big batch of the much loved Golden Corral Banana Pudding in your own kitchen with this quick and easy recipe. Fresh banana sliced, velvety homemade pudding and crunchy vanilla wafers layer and meld beneath a cloud of light whipped topping in this creamy and addictive dessert.
Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a family dinner or because you have a sweet tooth that just won’t quit, this banana pudding is sure to impress and satisfy every single sweet tooth in the house.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Rich and delicious – Creamy custard and whipped topping are delicious with every bite.
- Quick & easy homemade – Save yourself a trip to pick up coffee; you can whip this copycat recipe up in minutes!
- Great for a crowd – This is a batch recipe, so it’s perfect for family dinner, potluck, or holidays.
- A burst of banana freshness – Real bananas have an undeniable natural sweetness and offers a refreshing fruity contrast.
- Your favorite dessert at home – Treat yourself to Golden Corral’s famous yeast rolls at home.
Golden Corral Banana Pudding Ingredients

- Bananas – I use ripe ones for the most delicious sweet, creamy layers.
- Vanilla wafers – These old-fashioned cookies just absorb all of the pudding magic SO well!
- Eggs – To achieve a nice and creamy custard base.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness to the custard, naturally.
- Salt – Seasoning that makes this dessert pop!
- Full fat milk – Rich custard base.
- Heavy whipping cream – Gives that extra richness and silkiness.
- Vanilla extract – You need that warm, old-fashioned banana flavor.
- Whipped cream – You can use cool whip OR whipped cream to add a light and creamy layer on top.
How To Make Golden Corral Banana Pudding Recipe

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch and salt. Add the milk little at a time while whisking until smooth. Cook it on medium, keep stirring, and, as soon as it starts to thicken and bubble, remove from heat.
Step 2: Beat the eggs lightly in a small bowl. Temper the eggs by slowly whisking a few tablespoons of the hot milk mixture into them, then gradually whisk the eggs back into the saucepan. Cook, stirring, for 2–3 minutes or until the sauce is thick. Take off the heat and add the vanilla.

Step 3: In a large platter or in individual servings cups, line base with layer of vanilla wafers. Top with a layer of the banana slices and pour some of the custard over it. Repeat layers using all ingredients, and ending up with custard on top.
Step 4: Cover the pudding with plastic wrap and let chill for around 3-4 hours (overnight is even better!) to allow the flavors to fuse and for the dessert to set up.
Step 5: Just before serving, top with whipped topping and garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or banana slices, if desired.

Golden Corral Banana Pudding Recipe Tips
- Make sure to use ripe bananas – Use ripe bananas which are sweet and on the softer side to enjoy both the flavors and natural sweetness.
- Layer with care – Alternating layers of pudding, bananas, and wafers will ensure each bite has a perfect combination of flavor and texture.
- Chill– Chill the pudding in the fridge for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight to meld flavors and in order for the wafers to absorb some of the liquid and soften.
- Whipped cream – Mix in whipped cream or meringue until smooth and creamy.
- Make in advance – It actually tastes a lot better made a day before so ideal for entertaining.
Storing Instructions
Refrigerate Golden Corral Banana Pudding in a sealed container for up to 3 days. It is best served cold for the most flavor and texture.

Golden Corral Banana Pudding Recipe Faqs
Can I prepare this banana pudding in advance? Yes! You can make the pudding up to 1 day ahead; cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to use. Because the flavors will meld, and it will be even more delicious for the wait.
Is it possible to use instant pudding mix instead of cooking from scratch? Absolutely! You can use instant banana or vanilla pudding instead for a faster version, however, the homemade recipe tastes richer and creamier.
How many days does the banana pudding last in the refrigerator? Keep it in an airtight container for 3 days. Bananas fresh and not overly ripe will become soft after a while, so enjoy it on the first day for best texture.
Can Golden Corral banana pudding be frozen? Freezing would not be the best option as the pudding and bananas would get watery and the creamy texture lost.
Can I swap things to make the cake lighter? Certainly, you can work with low-fat milk or a sugar substitute, but the pudding’s texture may be a touch less rich and creamy.
More Golden Corral Recipes
Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie
Golden Corral Peach Cobbler Recipe
Golden Corral Yeast Rolls Recipe
Golden Corral Cornbread Recipe
Golden Corral Carrot and Raisin Salad
Golden Corral Bourbon Street Chicken Copycat
Golden Corral Sausage and Peppers
Copycat Golden Corral Pot Roast
Golden Corral Fried Chicken Recipe
Golden Corral Banana Nut Bread Recipe (Copycat Version)
Golden Corral Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
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Golden Corral Banana Pudding Recipe
Description
Ingredients
- 4 Bananas , sliced evenly
- 3 cups Vanilla wafers ,
- 2 cups Milk ,
- 3/4 cup Granulated sugar ,
- 3 large Eggs ,
- 3 tablespoons Cornstarch ,
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt ,
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract ,
- 1 cup Whipped topping , like Cool Whip, for creamy topping
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together 3/4 cup Granulated sugar , 3 tablespoons Cornstarch , and 1/4 teaspoon Salt . Gradually whisk in 2 cups Milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble.
- In a small bowl, lightly beat the 3 large Eggs . Slowly whisk a few tablespoons of the hot milk mixture into the eggs to temper them, then gradually add the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Continue cooking 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- In a large serving dish or individual cups, place a layer of 3 cups Vanilla wafers on the bottom. Add a layer of 4 Bananas , then pour a portion of the custard over the top. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with custard on top.
- Cover the pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld and the pudding set.
- Just before serving, spread 1 cup Whipped topping over the pudding and optionally garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or banana slices for presentation.
- Scoop portions into bowls or serve directly from the dish. Enjoy your creamy, layered Golden Corral-style banana pudding!
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Nutrition
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