Dolly Parton’s Banana Pudding Pancakes are a fun Southern-inspired breakfast combining fluffy pancakes with the classic flavors of banana pudding. With ripe bananas, vanilla, creamy pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers, these pancakes are perfect for a special weekend breakfast or brunch.
Why This Recipe Works
- Classic banana pudding flavor: Banana, vanilla, and vanilla wafers bring the familiar dessert flavors to breakfast.
- Fluffy pancakes: A simple buttermilk-based batter creates soft, tender pancakes.
- Easy to customize: Add whipped cream, sliced bananas, or crushed cookies on top.
- Perfect for special occasions: Sweet, comforting, and fun enough for weekend brunch.
Ingredients
For the Pancakes
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1¾ cups buttermilk
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ½ cup crushed vanilla wafers
For the Banana Pudding Topping
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 banana, thinly sliced
- ½ cup whipped cream
- ½ cup crushed vanilla wafers
How to Make Dolly Parton’s Banana Pudding Pancakes
1. Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla, and mashed banana. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers.
2. Make the Banana Pudding
Whisk the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix according to the package directions until thickened. Set aside while you cook the pancakes.
3. Cook the Pancakes
Heat a lightly buttered griddle or skillet over medium heat. Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2–3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
4. Assemble
Stack the warm pancakes on a serving plate. Spoon vanilla pudding between the layers or over the top. Add sliced bananas, whipped cream, and crushed vanilla wafers.
5. Serve
Serve the pancakes immediately with extra banana slices, whipped cream, and vanilla wafers if desired.
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding Pancakes
- Use a ripe banana for stronger banana flavor and natural sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the pancake batter; a few small lumps are fine.
- Cook the pancakes over medium heat so they brown without burning.
- Prepare the pudding while the batter rests to save time.
- Add the vanilla wafers just before serving so they retain some crunch.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle the stack with caramel sauce.
Final Thoughts
These Dolly Parton’s Banana Pudding Pancakes bring the comforting flavors of classic Southern banana pudding to a fluffy breakfast favorite. With creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, they make an especially delicious weekend treat.
