Nana Jo always made these for little get-togethers, and somehow everybody ends up sneaking an extra cup.

Prep the bananas and wafers: Slice the bananas into 1/4-inch rounds and set aside. Lightly crush a handful of vanilla wafers into fine crumbs for the topping and set those aside as well. Keep the rest of the wafers whole or in large pieces for layering.

Start layering in the cups: Place 3–4 vanilla wafers in the bottom of each paper takeout cup, breaking them if needed to cover the bottom. Add a spoonful or two of vanilla pudding over the wafers, spreading it gently to cover.

Add the banana layer: Place a single layer of banana slices over the pudding in each cup. Try to keep the banana slices toward the middle of the pudding layers so they stay creamy and don’t brown as quickly.

Repeat the layers: Add another layer of vanilla wafers on top of the bananas, followed by another layer of pudding. Depending on the size of your cups, you can repeat with more bananas and wafers, finishing with a smooth layer of pudding on top. Aim to end with pudding so the top looks pale yellow and creamy.

Top and chill: Sprinkle the reserved vanilla wafer crumbs over the top of each cup. Arrange the cups on a tray and cover them loosely with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours, so the wafers soften slightly and the flavors meld together.

Serve: Just before serving, you can tuck one extra vanilla wafer into the top of each cup for a little crunch and a homemade look. Set the chilled cups out on the counter or table and watch them disappear—most folks will come back to sneak a second one, just like at Nana Jo’s get-togethers.

For picky eaters, you can make a few cups without banana slices—just layer extra wafers and pudding so they still feel included. If you’re short on time, skip the whipped cream step and use only the instant pudding with milk; it will still be tasty, just a little less fluffy. For a lighter version, use 2% milk and skip the heavy cream, or swap in a light whipped topping folded into the pudding instead. To dress them up for a special occasion, pipe the top layer of pudding with a pastry bag and add a tiny swirl of whipped cream and one banana slice right before serving. You can also play with flavors: try using banana cream or French vanilla pudding mix, or add a pinch of cinnamon to the wafer crumbs for a cozy twist. If you’re making these ahead for a party, assemble them the morning of your event, keep them in the fridge, and add any decorative banana slices at the last minute so they stay fresh-looking.