Description
Southern comfort meets sweet nostalgia in this classic banana pudding that whispers memories of grandma’s kitchen. Creamy layers of vanilla custard, ripe bananas, and crisp vanilla wafers create a dessert that invites you to savor each delightful spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
Thickening Agents:
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Garnish and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package vanilla wafer cookies
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Whisk together cornstarch, granulated sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan, creating a smooth dry mixture to prevent lumps in the pudding.
- Gradually pour milk and heavy cream into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to ensure a silky, lump-free base.
- Separate egg yolks from whites, then gently beat yolks in a separate bowl until pale and slightly thickened.
- Temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the warm milk mixture, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring over medium heat until the pudding thickens and begins to bubble, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter, creating a rich, glossy pudding base.
- Slice ripe bananas into uniform rounds, preparing them for layering.
- In a serving dish, create alternating layers of vanilla wafer cookies, banana slices, and the warm pudding mixture.
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set completely.
- Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a decadent finish.
- Chill until ready to serve, allowing the pudding to maintain its creamy consistency and layered texture.
Notes
- Prevent lumpy pudding by whisking dry ingredients thoroughly before adding liquid, ensuring a smooth base.
- Temper egg yolks carefully by slowly adding hot milk mixture to avoid scrambling, creating a silky custard texture.
- Choose ripe, firm bananas for optimal flavor and structural integrity when layering the dessert.
- Make this dessert gluten-free by substituting vanilla wafers with almond flour or gluten-free cookie alternatives.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 27 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg