Every now and then, a cocktail shows up that feels more like a memory than a drink. The Banana Pudding Martini does exactly that. The first time I tried one, it instantly brought back the feeling of sharing dessert at the table, where everyone sneaks an extra spoonful. It felt familiar, cozy, and surprisingly fun in martini form.
I love this because it feels playful but still put together, like a dessert noted on a menu that everyone secretly wants to order. This is a great cocktail for nights when you want something comforting instead of bright or boozy. It works well for after dinner drinks, holiday gatherings, or small get-togethers where dessert cocktails make sense. If you enjoy creamy cocktails that lean nostalgic and crowd-pleasing, this Banana Pudding Martini is an easy win. Inspired by palmettodistillery.com
Why You Will Love This
The Banana Pudding Martini is all about comfort and familiarity. It takes a classic dessert flavor and turns it into something fun and shareable.
- Tastes like a classic dessert in cocktail form
- Smooth and creamy without being heavy
- Easy to make with simple steps
- Always a hit at gatherings
- Great option for dessert lovers
- Feels special without being complicated
Once you serve it, people usually ask what is in it, then ask for another.
Ingredients
The ingredients in this cocktail are chosen to mimic the flavors and texture of banana pudding as closely as possible. Each one plays a clear role in creating that dessert-like experience.
- 2 oz whipped cream vodka
- 2 oz Banana Pudding Sippin’ Cream
- 2 oz whole milk or cream
- Whipped cream for topping
- Caramel syrup for rimming
- Crushed vanilla wafers for rimming
Whipped cream vodka adds a soft sweetness and helps keep the drink smooth. Banana Pudding Sippin’ Cream delivers the signature flavor and richness. Milk or cream adjusts the texture and keeps the drink balanced. The caramel rim and crushed vanilla wafers are key to the experience, adding texture and flavor before the first sip even hits.
Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions
Using the right spirits helps this cocktail stay true to its dessert inspiration, but there is room to adjust if needed.
- Smirnoff Whipped Cream Vodka for a smooth base
- Pinnacle Whipped Vodka for a slightly sweeter profile
- Sugarlands Banana Pudding Sippin’ Cream for classic flavor
- RumChata Banana Cream if Sippin’ Cream is unavailable
- Half and half as a balance between milk and cream
If you prefer a lighter drink, use whole milk instead of cream. For a richer version, heavy cream works well, but shake thoroughly to keep the texture smooth.
Equipment and Glassware
This cocktail does not require special tools, which makes it easy to prepare at home.
- Cocktail Shaker
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Martini Glass
- Small plates for rimming
A chilled martini glass works best. Chilling the glass ahead of time helps the drink stay cold and improves the overall experience.
How to Make It
This cocktail comes together quickly, but preparing the rim first makes the process smoother.
- Rim the Glass Drizzle caramel syrup around the rim of a martini glass. Dip the rim into crushed vanilla wafers to coat.
- Shake In a shaker filled with ice, combine whipped cream vodka, banana pudding Sippin’ Cream, and milk or cream. Shake thoroughly until well chilled.
- Strain Strain into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish Top with a swirl of whipped cream. Optionally, sprinkle more crushed wafers on top for extra texture.
Once poured, serve immediately so the drink stays cold and creamy.
Pro Tips
These tips help make sure your Banana Pudding Martini looks good and tastes just right every time.
- Chill the martini glass before serving
- Crush vanilla wafers finely for better coating
- Shake well to fully blend cream and spirits
- Use fresh ice for a colder drink
- Apply caramel evenly around the rim
- Taste before straining and adjust milk if needed
- Garnish just before serving
Once you feel comfortable with the base recipe, small changes can help you dial in your preferred texture and sweetness.
Variations
This cocktail is easy to customize while keeping the banana pudding flavor front and center.
- Make it alcohol free using banana pudding mix and milk
- Add a splash of vanilla syrup for extra depth
- Use chocolate syrup instead of caramel on the rim
- Blend with ice for a frozen dessert drink
- Add a pinch of cinnamon on top for warmth
Each variation keeps the dessert feel while offering something slightly different.
When to Serve and Pairings
The Banana Pudding Martini works best as an after dinner drink or dessert replacement. It fits moments when people want something sweet and relaxing.
Serve it at holiday parties, dinner gatherings, birthdays, or casual nights where dessert cocktails make sense. It also works well as a finale to a meal.
- Light cookies or shortbread
- Banana based desserts
- Chocolate treats
- Coffee or espresso drinks
Keeping pairings simple helps the cocktail stay the focus.
Storage and Serving Notes
This cocktail is best served fresh. Cream-based drinks do not hold well once mixed.
If you are serving a group, prep the rims ahead of time and keep ingredients chilled. Shake each drink individually for best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Does this cocktail taste very sweet?
It is sweet, but balanced by the cream and vodka.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It is best made fresh due to the dairy.
What if I cannot find Banana Pudding Sippin’ Cream?
Banana cream liqueur or a similar product can work.
Can I skip the rim?
Yes. The rim adds flavor and texture, but it is optional.
Is this a strong drink?
It is moderate in strength and easy to sip.
More Cocktails to Try
If you enjoyed this Banana Pudding Martini, here are a few other dessert-style cocktails to explore.
- Bananas Foster Martini
- Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
- Creme Brulee Martini
- Dirty Banana
- Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini

Equipment
- Small plates for rimming
Ingredients
- 2 oz whipped cream vodka
- 2 oz Banana Pudding Sippin’ Cream
- 2 oz whole milk or cream
- Whipped cream for topping
- Caramel syrup for rimming
- Crushed vanilla wafers for rimming
Instructions
- Rim the Glass: Drizzle caramel syrup around the rim of a martini glass. Dip the rim into crushed vanilla wafers to coat.
- Shake: In a shaker filled with ice, combine whipped cream vodka, banana pudding Sippin’ Cream, and milk or cream. Shake thoroughly until well chilled.
- Strain: Strain into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish: Top with a swirl of whipped cream. Optionally, sprinkle more crushed wafers on top for extra texture.
Notes
Pro Tips
-
- For an extra-decadent version, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Chill your martini glass in advance for a silky, cold pour.
- Garnish with a mini vanilla wafer or banana chip for a playful finish.


