Banana Moon Pie Cake

I’ve always had a soft spot for nostalgic treats, and Banana Moon Pie Cake take me right back to my childhood. There’s just something magical about that fluffy marshmallow filling, the soft banana-flavored cookie, and that smooth chocolate coating.

Instead of grabbing a store-bought version, I decided to make my own—and honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever go back.

Banana Moon Pie Cake
Banana Moon Pie Cake

This recipe brings together all the comforting flavors I love, but with a homemade twist that makes each bite even more special. If you’re craving something sweet, simple, and filled with old-school charm, you’re going to love these.

Why You Will Love This Recipe?

Here’s a personal-style paragraph version of the “Why You Will Love This Recipe” section:

If you’re anything like me, you’ll fall in love with this Banana Moon Pie recipe after just one bite. The soft banana-flavored cookies, gooey marshmallow filling, and smooth chocolate coating come together in the most comforting way.

It’s everything I crave in a nostalgic treat—but better, because it’s homemade. I get to use real banana for flavor, not artificial stuff, and that makes all the difference. These are fun to make, especially if you’ve got kids helping in the kitchen, and they’re even better to eat.

Whether I’m making them for a weekend treat or just to satisfy a banana craving, they never last long in my house.

Would you like a gluten-free or vegan variation included too?

How To Make Banana Moon Pie Recipe?

🕒 Recipe Overview

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Course: Dessert
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: American (Southern)
  • Yield: 12 servings

🧰 Equipment Needed

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Medium saucepan
  • Rubber spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Aluminum foil or plastic wrap

🛒 Ingredients

  • 8 banana-flavored Moon Pies
  • 16 oz (1 tub) whipped topping
  • 5 oz cook-and-serve vanilla pudding mix
  • 5 ripe bananas
  • 12 oz caramel syrup
  • Optional: maraschino cherries for garnish

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Moon Pies

Unwrap 7 Moon Pies and cut each into four strips. Arrange the strips, cut side up, in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will form the base layer of your dessert.

2. Cook the Pudding

Prepare the vanilla pudding according to the package instructions. Once cooked, pour the warm pudding over the arranged Moon Pie pieces in the dish. Ensure the pudding covers all the Moon Pies evenly.

3. Chill the Base

Cover the dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate until the pudding is completely cooled and set, about 6 hours or overnight.

4. Add Caramel and Bananas

Once the base is chilled, drizzle a generous amount of caramel syrup over the pudding layer. Slice the bananas and arrange them evenly over the caramel layer.

5. Top with Whipped Topping

Spread the whipped topping over the banana layer, smoothing it out with a spatula. Drizzle additional caramel syrup on top for extra flavor.

6. Garnish

Cut the remaining Moon Pie into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them over the top of the dessert. If desired, add maraschino cherries for a pop of color.

7. Serve

Refrigerate the assembled dessert until ready to serve. For best results, let it sit for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This Banana Moon Pie Cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by:

  • Serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
  • Adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts for crunch
  • Drizzling with chocolate syrup for a banana split vibe

🧠 Tips and Variations

  • Moon Pie Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different Moon Pie flavors like chocolate or vanilla to suit your taste.
  •  Pudding Options: While vanilla pudding is classic, banana or chocolate pudding can add a new dimension.
  • Fruit Additions: Incorporate other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for added freshness.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between layers for texture.
  • Mini Versions: Create individual servings in mason jars for a portable treat.

🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: Approximately 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 27g
  • Protein: 4g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

🌿 Health Benefits

While this dessert is indulgent, it does offer some benefits:

  • Bananas: Rich in potassium and vitamin B6, supporting heart health and energy metabolism.
  • Portion Control: Serving in moderation can satisfy sweet cravings without overindulgence.
  • Mood Booster: Enjoying a nostalgic treat can enhance mood and provide comfort.

🧊 How I Store Banana Moon Pie Cake

I always store my Banana Moon Pie Cake in the same dish I prepare it in, usually a 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish. After assembling it, I cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator.

It stays fresh for up to four days, and I find that the flavors actually get better after the first day. The pudding sets beautifully, and the Moon Pies soften just enough to create that perfect texture.

I never freeze it, though—whipped topping and bananas just don’t handle freezing well. The texture gets off, and the bananas turn dark and mushy. For best results, I always serve it chilled straight from the fridge.

📝 Note

This recipe is inspired by traditional Southern desserts and brings a modern twist to the classic banana pudding. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a special family treat.

🎉 Conclusion

I love how this Banana Moon Pie Cake brings together the sweet, nostalgic flavors of childhood with the simplicity I need in the kitchen.

I didn’t have to bake a thing, and yet every bite tasted like I’d spent hours on it. The banana Moon Pies, creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and whipped topping all come together like magic.

This isn’t just a dessert—it’s a conversation starter, a family favorite, and a go-to treat I’ll keep making again and again. If you’re craving something comforting, easy, and downright delicious, this recipe won’t let you down. Give it a try—you’ll thank me later.

❓FAQs

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. I actually prefer making it the night before. It gives the pudding time to set and lets all the flavors soak in beautifully.

2. Do I have to use banana-flavored Moon Pies?

Nope! I’ve tried it with chocolate and vanilla Moon Pies too, and it still turns out amazing. Banana flavor just adds a little extra depth.

3. Can I use instant pudding instead of cook-and-serve?

Yes, but I get a creamier texture with cook-and-serve pudding. Instant works if you’re in a hurry—I’ve done it myself.

4. How long will this dessert last in the fridge?

It stays good for about 3–4 days when covered tightly. The bananas might darken a bit after the second day, but the flavor holds up.

5. Can I freeze Banana Moon Pie Cake?

I don’t recommend it. The whipped topping and bananas don’t freeze well, and the texture gets off when thawed.