In a large mixing bowl, beat together vanilla pudding mix, the cold milk, and the sweetened condensed milk with an electric mixer (or vigorously by hand) for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth, thickened, and well combined.
Gently fold half of the thawed frozen whipped topping saving the rest for later into the prepared pudding mixture using a spatula. Use slow, sweeping motions to incorporate it without deflating the fluffiness—this creates an extra-creamy, mousse-like consistency ideal for spooning into mini trifles.
Spoon or spread a thin, even layer (about 1–2 tablespoons per mini dish, depending on cup size) of the lightened pudding mixture at the bottom of each clear mini trifle cup, parfait glass, or small Mason jar. (This creamy base helps anchor the layers, prevents sliding, and creates a beautiful foundation that peeks through the sides for that adorable Easter dessert-table look.)
Arrange 4–6 of the Annie’s bunny cookies standing them upright or leaning around the inner edge of each mini trifle dish—this creates a charming “bunny fence” that peeks through the clear sides for maximum Easter cuteness.
Then, add a pretty layer of fresh banana slices in the center, overlapping slightly over the pudding base and nestling inside the cookie ring.
Spoon or gently spread another generous layer (about 2–3 tablespoons per mini dish) of the pudding mixture over the banana slices and inside the bunny cookie border.
Smooth it out evenly with the back of a spoon to create clean, defined layers that show beautifully through the sides of the clear cups.
Then, arrange another row of cute Easter bunny cookies (4–6 per dish, like pastel-dipped or sprinkle-topped bunny shapes) standing upright around the inner edge—this doubles down on the charming “bunny fence” for extra holiday cuteness!
Finish by adding a fresh layer of banana slices in the center, overlapping slightly inside the cookie ring, and top it all off with one more generous layer of pudding mixture, smoothing the surface for a clean finish.
Dollop or spread a thin, even layer of the remaining thawed frozen whipped topping over the top of each mini trifle dish.
Use the back of a spoon to create gentle swirls or peaks for a pretty, fluffy finish—this crowns the layers beautifully and keeps everything sealed and creamy.
Cover each mini trifle loosely with plastic wrap (or place in a lidded container if using jars) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for the best flavor and set). This chilling time allows the pudding to firm up, the flavors to meld, and the banana slices to soften slightly while the bunny cookies stay crisp around the edges—resulting in those perfect, spoonable, crowd-pleasing bites!
Decorate the top of each mini trifle with a few more cute Easter bunny cookies (standing upright or leaning for whimsy) and a scattering of fresh banana slices arranged artfully in the center. This adds bright color, texture, and a final nod to the classic banana pudding flavor.
For an extra festive Easter sparkle, sprinkle a generous handful of crushed Cadbury mini eggs (or other pastel chocolate eggs) over the whipped topping (optional but highly recommended—it brings that irresistible crunch and chocolatey holiday magic!).