Description
Banana pudding is a timeless dessert that brings comfort to every bite. With layers of creamy, homemade vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafers, this dessert strikes the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, holiday gathering, or a summer picnic, this banana pudding will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. The pudding is made from scratch for a rich, decadent flavor that sets it apart from store-bought versions. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make the best banana pudding!
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 2 cups of whole milk 🥛 – This creates a rich, creamy base for your pudding.
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar 🍬 – Adds sweetness to the pudding.
- 4 large egg yolks 🥚 – These help thicken the pudding and add richness.
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch 🌽 – This is the thickening agent that ensures the pudding sets perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt 🧂 – Balances the sweetness of the dessert and enhances the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 🍮 – Adds depth and warmth to the pudding.
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter 🧈 – Makes the pudding extra smooth and creamy.
For the Layers:
- 3 ripe bananas 🍌 – Use ripe but firm bananas for optimal flavor and texture.
- 1 box (about 12 oz) of vanilla wafer cookies 🍪 – The crunchy base that complements the creamy layers.
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping) 🍦 – A light, fluffy topping that adds an extra touch of indulgence.
Garnish:
- Additional banana slices 🍌
- Crushed vanilla wafer cookies 🍪
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pudding 🍮
Start by combining the milk, sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Whisk everything together until smooth and well-combined. Place the saucepan over medium heat and continuously stir the mixture. The mixture should begin to thicken after about 5-7 minutes of simmering.
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. The butter will melt and create a smooth, velvety texture. Allow the pudding to cool slightly as you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Assemble the Layers 🍪🍌
In a large glass serving dish, such as a trifle dish, start by placing a layer of vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom. These cookies will absorb some of the pudding, creating a cake-like texture. Next, layer sliced bananas over the cookies, making sure each piece is evenly distributed. Spoon a portion of the pudding over the bananas and cookies, spreading it into an even layer.
Continue layering the cookies, bananas, and pudding until you’ve used up all your ingredients, ending with a final layer of pudding on top. For a more decorative finish, top with whipped cream or crushed wafer cookies.
3. Chill the Pudding ❄️
Cover the banana pudding with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling the dessert allows the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften, creating the perfect creamy consistency.
Once chilled, serve the banana pudding with additional banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers on top for garnish.
Notes
- Banana Selection 🍌: Choose bananas that are ripe but not overly soft. Overripe bananas can turn mushy and won’t hold up as well in the pudding.
- Make Ahead 💡: Banana pudding tastes even better the next day! Allowing it to sit overnight lets the flavors develop fully.
- Pudding Texture 🍮: If the pudding appears too thin or too thick, you can adjust the consistency by slightly altering the heat during cooking. Always stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Whipped Cream Option 🍦: If you’re not a fan of whipped cream, you can skip this step or use meringue for a different topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 65mg