Description
This classic Southern American banana pudding is made from scratch using ripe bananas, creamy homemade pudding, and layers of vanilla wafers. It’s a rich, comforting dessert perfect for any occasion, topped optionally with whipped cream or meringue for an extra touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Other
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box (about 8 oz) vanilla wafers
- Whipped cream or meringue for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until evenly combined. Gradually add the milk while whisking to create a smooth mixture free of lumps.
- Cook the pudding: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly with a whisk or spoon to prevent burning, until the mixture begins to bubble and thickens, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Temper the egg yolks: In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot pudding mixture into the yolks while whisking continuously to raise their temperature without scrambling them.
- Incorporate the eggs: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Continue cooking over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding is thick and smooth.
- Finish the pudding: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully melted and incorporated, resulting in a rich, creamy texture.
- Assemble the dessert: In a 2-quart dish, start layering by placing a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, and then a layer of warm pudding. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a pudding layer on top.
- Chill the pudding: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
- Serve: Just before serving, optionally top the pudding with whipped cream or meringue for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor and crunch, briefly toast the vanilla wafers before layering.
- Use very ripe bananas as they add natural sweetness and enhance the overall taste.
- This dessert can be assembled in individual cups for convenient single servings.
