Creating your No-Bake Southern Banana Pudding is simple when you follow these easy steps:

1. Prepare Bananas: If desired, toss banana slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Whip Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
3. Mix Pudding: In another bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
4. Fold Mixtures Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully incorporated, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
5. Layer Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch dish, layer the ingredients starting with a base of vanilla wafers. Top with a layer of pudding mixture, followed by a layer of sliced bananas. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
6. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set properly.
7. Garnish *(optional)*: Just before serving, garnish the top with additional banana slices or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers.

These easy-to-follow instructions will lead you to a beautifully layered dessert that is bound to wow your family and friends.