Classic Southern Banana Pudding
Creamy homemade banana pudding layered with vanilla wafers and fresh bananas.
20 mins
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
6
Servings
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Nutrition Facts
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Instructions
Prepare the pudding base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
Cook the pudding: Place saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat.
Temper the eggs: In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot pudding mixture to temper the eggs, then whisk egg mixture back into the saucepan.
Finish the pudding: Return to heat and cook 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the bananas: Slice bananas into 1/4-inch rounds. Toss with a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning if desired.
Assemble the pudding: In a trifle dish or bowl, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding. Repeat layers, ending with pudding.
Make the topping: Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over top layer of pudding.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Chef's Tips
- Banana Ripeness: Use bananas that are ripe but still firm for best texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: Pudding can be made 1 day in advance - add whipped cream topping just before serving.
- Layering Tip: For neat presentation, arrange vanilla wafers vertically around the sides of a clear bowl.
- Texture Tip: For extra creaminess, use half-and-half instead of milk in the pudding.
- Variation: Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the pudding for an adult version.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated and consume within 2 days for best quality.
