Creating the Old School Banana Pudding Cake is straightforward if you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition.
5. Add Mashed Bananas: Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until fully incorporated.
7. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Cakes: Once done, remove from the oven and cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Pudding: In a large bowl, combine the instant banana pudding mix with 4 cups of cold milk. Whisk for 2-3 minutes until the pudding thickens.
10. Whip the Cream: Fold in the whipped cream gently into the prepared pudding until combined.
11. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread half of the banana pudding mixture over the cake layer.
12. Add the Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining pudding mixture.
13. Garnish: Top with more whipped cream and fresh banana slices, if desired.

Following these steps will result in a beautiful and delicious Old School Banana Pudding Cake that everyone will enjoy.