Cakes & Desserts
svg20 minutes

Mini No-Bake Banana Pudding Tarts: 5 Easy Steps to Delightful Dessert

Amy

February 13, 2025
Easy
Cuisine: American

If you’re craving a deliciously simple yet indulgent dessert, look no further than these Mini No-Bake Banana Pudding Tarts! A perfect combination of creamy banana pudding, a crisp graham cracker crust, and a smooth, whipped topping, these tarts will satisfy your sweet tooth without the hassle of baking.

This delightful dessert can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this easy, no-bake recipe is perfect for all skill levels.

Why You’ll Love These Mini No-Bake Banana Pudding Tarts

These mini no-bake banana pudding tarts are a game-changer when it comes to simple, crowd-pleasing desserts. Here’s why you’ll love making them:

1. No-Bake Convenience

Who doesn’t love a no-bake recipe? With minimal prep and no need for an oven, these tarts come together quickly. You can whip them up in less than 30 minutes!

2. Customizable Flavor

Feel free to adjust the flavors or toppings! Add a little chocolate drizzle, top with fresh strawberries, or even try other fruits if you want to get creative.

3. Perfect for Parties

These tarts are a hit at any gathering. Their mini size makes them easy to serve and perfect for portion control. Plus, they’re just as delicious as they are cute!

4. Delicious Layers

The creamy banana pudding filling layered in a crunchy graham cracker crust is an irresistible combination. The whipped topping adds a smooth finish that completes the dessert perfectly.

5. Make Ahead

Since this is a no-bake recipe, you can make these mini tarts ahead of time and refrigerate them. They taste even better after chilling, giving the flavors time to blend.

Ingredients for Mini No-Bake Banana Pudding Tarts

To make these easy mini no-bake banana pudding tarts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • Pinch of salt

For the Banana Pudding Filling:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 ripe bananas, sliced

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup whipped cream (or cool whip)
  • Extra banana slices for garnish
  • Crushed graham crackers or additional banana chips (optional)

How to Make Mini No-Bake Banana Pudding Tarts

Follow these easy steps to create your own mini no-bake banana pudding tarts:

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by making the graham cracker crust. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.

Next, divide the graham cracker mixture into mini tart pans. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides to form a crust. If you don’t have tart pans, you can use a muffin tin or mini cheesecake pans.

Chill the crusts in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes to firm up before adding the filling.

Step 2: Make the Banana Pudding Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer at medium speed to beat the mixture until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).

Once the mixture is whipped, gently fold in the sliced bananas. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the bananas to remain intact in the pudding.

Step 3: Assemble the Tarts

Once the graham cracker crusts have chilled, it’s time to assemble the tarts. Spoon the banana pudding filling into the chilled tart crusts, smoothing the top with a spoon or spatula.

After filling all the tarts, top each one with a dollop of whipped cream or cool whip. Garnish with extra banana slices or crushed graham crackers for added texture.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Once all the tarts are assembled, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to set. This step will also help the tarts hold their shape when serving. Serve chilled for the best results.

Tips for the Best Mini No-Bake Banana Pudding Tarts

For the perfect mini no-bake banana pudding tarts, keep these helpful tips in mind:

  • Use Fresh Bananas: Fresh, ripe bananas will give you the best flavor. If your bananas are too ripe, they may turn mushy in the pudding.
  • Chill the Crust: Don’t skip the chilling time for the graham cracker crust. This helps it firm up, ensuring that the tart holds its shape when you add the pudding.
  • Make It Ahead of Time: These tarts can be made the day before you plan to serve them, making them the perfect stress-free dessert for parties or gatherings.
  • Customize the Filling: You can add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the banana pudding filling for extra flavor. Or even fold in some mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist.

Variations You Can Try

This mini no-bake banana pudding tarts recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to change it up:

  • Chocolate Banana Pudding Tarts: Add a layer of chocolate ganache to the crust before filling with the banana pudding mixture. It’s a delicious twist that adds richness.
  • Tropical Tarts: Instead of bananas, use diced mangoes and pineapples for a tropical-inspired pudding tart.
  • Peanut Butter Banana Pudding Tarts: For an extra creamy, nutty flavor, swirl in some peanut butter into the pudding mixture before adding the bananas.
  • Mini Cheesecake Banana Tarts: For a tangy twist, mix some cream cheese into the banana pudding filling for a cheesecake-style tart.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these banana pudding tarts ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! These tarts can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just make sure to add the whipped cream topping just before serving to keep it fresh.

2. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Yes, you can use store-bought whipped cream or cool whip if you prefer. Homemade whipped cream will add an extra richness, but store-bought is a convenient alternative.

3. Can I freeze these tarts?

While these tarts are best served fresh, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and thaw them in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

4. Can I use a different crust?

You can use a different crust if you like! For example, an Oreo crust or a chocolate graham cracker crust would work wonderfully with the banana pudding filling.

More Delicious Dessert Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed these mini no-bake banana pudding tarts, here are some more delicious desserts that you’ll love:

Mini No-Bake Banana Pudding Tarts are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or craving something sweet, these tarts will be a hit. With their creamy banana pudding filling, crispy graham cracker crust, and rich whipped topping, they’ll become your go-to dessert in no time!