Ultimate Creamy Banana Pudding

Ultimate Creamy Banana Pudding

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.

Find more Down Home Southern meal ideas here!

Join us today for more food ideas on Facebook at Blessed Mess Kitchen!

Kay Keeton, Ed.

Editor in Chief, Kay Keeton - Texas Lifestyle Expert. Kay is a designer turned author, marketer, storyteller, and influencer. A sixth-generation Texan, Kay is both an authority as well as being passionate about sharing her home state of Texas's diverse culture and lifestyle. Kay is a content writer and editor of content for various local and national online publications.

Recent Posts

Ultimate Creamy Banana Pudding