Banana Bliss in a Bowl: The Ultimate Creamy Banana Pudding!
Indulge in a heavenly dessert that combines the smooth richness of vanilla pudding with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the satisfying crunch of vanilla wafers. This creamy banana pudding is a timeless classic that never fails to delight taste buds and bring a smile to faces young and old.
Picture yourself diving into layers of velvety pudding, perfectly ripe banana slices, and crumbly wafers, all crowned with a cloud of whipped cream. This dessert is not just a treat for the palate; it’s a comforting embrace that transports you to sunny summer picnics and cherished family gatherings.
While its origins are debated, banana pudding has been a beloved Southern staple since the late 19th century. This version elevates the traditional recipe with a homemade vanilla pudding that’s miles above any instant mix. Paired with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee, this dessert is the perfect way to end a meal or satisfy a sweet craving any time of day.
Ultimate Creamy Banana Pudding Recipe
Ingredients:
4 cups whole milk
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 box vanilla wafers (approximately 11 oz)
4 ripe bananas
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of milk, 3/4 cup of sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of sugar, and egg yolks. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
3. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens and large bubbles form, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
5. When ready to assemble, slice the bananas into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
6. In a large serving bowl or individual dishes, begin layering the dessert. Start with a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of banana slices, and then a layer of pudding. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding.
7. In a clean bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
8. Top the pudding with the whipped cream and garnish with crushed vanilla wafers if desired.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes:
- For a quicker version, you can use instant vanilla pudding mix, but the homemade pudding truly elevates this dessert.
- To prevent bananas from browning, you can brush them lightly with lemon juice before layering.
- For a twist, try using chocolate wafers instead of vanilla for a banana-chocolate combination.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Information per serving (1/8 of recipe):
Calories: 450
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 135mg
Sodium: 230mg
Total Carbohydrates: 62g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 42g
Protein: 7g
Other Information
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Equipment Used: Saucepan, whisk, mixing bowls, serving bowl or individual dishes
Estimated Cost per Serving: $1.50
Total Cost: $12.00
In Conclusion, Ultimate Creamy Banana Pudding
In conclusion, this creamy banana pudding is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck, enjoying it as an after-dinner treat, or simply indulging in a nostalgic dessert, this recipe is bound to impress and satisfy. The combination of homemade vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crispy wafers creates a dessert that’s both comforting and luxurious, perfect for any occasion.
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