Are you looking for a delightful dessert that combines creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and a rich chocolate coating? Look no further! Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups are the perfect treat for any occasion. In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through this delicious recipe, offering tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions. Stick around to the end to ensure your banana pudding cups are a hit every time!

What are Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups?
Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups are a dessert masterpiece that combines layers of creamy banana pudding, fresh banana slices, and a decadent chocolate shell. Imagine the smoothness of the pudding contrasting with the crunch of the chocolate – pure dessert bliss! Whether you're hosting a party, preparing a treat for your family, or just indulging your sweet tooth, these pudding cups are easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients List for Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups
- Bananas – 2 ripe bananas (sliced)
- Vanilla pudding mix – 1 package (instant or cook-and-serve)
- Milk – 2 cups (for preparing the pudding mix)
- Heavy cream – ½ cup (for extra creaminess)
- Vanilla wafers or graham crackers – 10-12 crushed
- Chocolate chips – 1 ½ cups (semi-sweet or dark)
- Coconut oil – 1 tablespoon (for chocolate coating)
- Whipped cream – for topping (optional)
- Sea salt – a pinch (optional, for garnish)
Ingredients List for Chocolate Sauce
- Chocolate chips – 1 ½ cups (semi-sweet or dark)
- Coconut oil – 1 tablespoon (helps the chocolate harden smoothly)
- Vanilla extract – ½ teaspoon (for flavor depth)
- Butter – 1 tablespoon (optional, for richer texture)
Substitutions and Variations
- Pudding Mix: If you're not a fan of vanilla pudding, you can substitute it with chocolate or butterscotch pudding for a different flavor profile. You can also opt for homemade pudding if you prefer an even richer taste.
- Bananas: Use plantains or caramelized bananas for a twist. For those who aren’t keen on bananas, strawberries or raspberries make a great substitute.
- Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate offers a more intense flavor, while milk chocolate brings a sweeter, creamier finish. You can also use white chocolate for a completely different visual and taste.
- Crust: Instead of vanilla wafers, try using Oreo crumbs, shortbread cookies, or graham crackers for added texture.
- Dairy-Free: If you need a dairy-free option, use almond milk or coconut milk for the pudding, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prepare the Pudding: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk. Add in the heavy cream and continue whisking until the pudding thickens. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to set.
- Slice the Bananas: While the pudding sets, slice the bananas into thin rounds. Make sure they are even-sized for a uniform look in your cups.
- Crush the Wafers or Crackers: Place your vanilla wafers or graham crackers in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. These crumbs will add a delightful crunch to your pudding cups.
- Make the Chocolate Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. If you want a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of butter.
- Layer the Pudding Cups: In small cups or ramekins, start by adding a layer of crushed vanilla wafers at the bottom. Top with a layer of banana slices, followed by a generous spoonful of vanilla pudding. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the cup.
- Cover with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over the top of each pudding cup, ensuring it covers the entire surface. The coconut oil in the chocolate helps it harden quickly, giving you that satisfying chocolate shell.
- Chill: Place the cups in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
- Garnish: Once the chocolate has hardened, top with a dollop of whipped cream, a banana slice, and a sprinkle of sea salt if desired.
How to Cook Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Gather Ingredients – Before you begin, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This includes crushing the wafers, slicing bananas, and preparing the pudding.
- Step 2: Prepare Pudding – Mix your pudding according to the package instructions, with an added twist of heavy cream for extra richness.
- Step 3: Layer – Begin assembling your cups. Start with a crunchy layer, followed by fresh bananas, then smooth pudding.
- Step 4: Chocolate Topping – Melt your chocolate chips with coconut oil, and pour it over the top of each pudding cup.
- Step 5: Chill and Set – Refrigerate for about 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens and forms a shell.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy – Top with your favorite garnishes and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Allowing the Pudding to Set Properly: Rushing the pudding setting process can result in a runny dessert. Be patient and give it time to firm up.
- Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas are ideal, overripe bananas can become mushy and change the texture of the dessert. Stick to just-ripe bananas for the best results.
- Overheating the Chocolate: Chocolate burns easily, so make sure to heat it in short bursts in the microwave or melt it gently over a double boiler. Overheated chocolate will seize and become grainy.
- Skipping the Coconut Oil in the Chocolate: The coconut oil helps the chocolate harden into a smooth, shiny shell. Without it, your chocolate may not harden properly or could become streaky.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How you serve and present your Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups can elevate the experience from simple dessert to show-stopping delight. Here are some tips to impress your guests.
- Use Clear Cups or Glasses: Show off the layers! Clear cups or small glass jars allow the beautiful layers of wafers, banana slices, pudding, and chocolate to shine through.
- Add Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a light and fluffy contrast to the dense pudding and chocolate. Use a piping bag to create a decorative swirl for an elegant touch.
- Garnish Creatively: Garnish with banana slices, a sprinkle of crushed wafers, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For extra flair, add a small mint leaf or a dusting of cocoa powder.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups
Serve the pudding cups chilled for the best taste and texture. When serving at a party or gathering, place them on a dessert platter with extra toppings on the side, such as whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and sliced bananas. This allows guests to customize their pudding cups.
Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups
- Mini Mason Jars: Serve the pudding cups in mini mason jars for a rustic, charming look. Tie a ribbon around the jars for added decoration.
- Dessert Shooters: Use small shot glasses for a bite-sized version of this dessert – perfect for parties.
- Layered Trifle Bowls: If you want to make a larger batch, you can layer all the ingredients in a trifle bowl and scoop out portions for guests.
Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can make the pudding cups ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the chocolate topping right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
- Use Fresh Bananas: Make sure to use fresh bananas that are not overly ripe to maintain a nice texture in your dessert.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle some toasted nuts or granola on top just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dessert dairy-free? Yes! Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for dairy milk in the pudding, and use dairy-free chocolate chips for the topping.
How long do Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups last in the fridge? They can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator. However, the bananas may start to brown after a day, so it's best to enjoy them fresh.
Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups? Freezing is not recommended because the texture of the bananas and pudding can change when thawed, becoming watery and mushy.
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant? Absolutely! Homemade pudding will add an extra layer of richness and flavor, though it may take a bit more time to prepare.
What can I use instead of coconut oil in the chocolate? If you don’t like coconut oil, you can use butter or vegetable oil, though coconut oil works best for a smooth, glossy finish.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the combination of rich chocolate, creamy pudding, and fresh bananas. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. Whether you're serving these at a party or enjoying them as a family treat, they are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try, experiment with the variations, and enjoy the delicious results!
PrintChocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups Recipe
This Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups recipe combines layers of creamy banana pudding, fresh bananas, and a rich chocolate topping. It's a perfect dessert for any event, featuring simple ingredients and a hassle-free method.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Bananas
- Vanilla pudding mix
- Milk
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate chips
- Graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
- Prepare vanilla pudding by mixing the pudding mix with cold milk, then refrigerate until set.
- Slice bananas and layer them in the bottom of small dessert cups.
- Top the bananas with a layer of pudding, then repeat the layers as desired.
- Melt chocolate chips and cover the top layer of pudding with melted chocolate.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs on top for a crunchy finish.
- Chill until set, then serve!
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for a sweeter flavor.
- For extra texture, add crushed cookies or nuts between layers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 220mg
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