While banana bread may get all the glory as the best way to use up any leftover fruit, we’re here to tell you that slicing a few bananas and adding them to a combination of vanilla pudding and cookies is never a bad ideas — especially when you top the craveworthy creation with a bit of whipped cream! Whether you’re looking for a dessert that can feed a crowd or simply need an easy-to-make treat that can satisfy your sweet tooth, banana pudding fits the bill. Magnolia’s Famous Banana Pudding may have put this dessert on the map but there are so many other delicious ways to reinvent this classic, starting with our absolute best recipe. It’s piled high with layers of just-ripe bananas, rich vanilla pudding and tender cookies. We used vanilla bean paste instead of extract for a bold flavor and then topped everything with swirls of freshly whipped cream. When it all comes together, it’s dreamy, luscious and perfect for any occasion!