Introduction
Banana pudding is a cherished Southern dessert, renowned for its creamy custard, sweet bananas, and crisp vanilla wafers, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors. This banana pudding recipe delivers a comforting, nostalgic treat perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy desserts at home. Its layered presentation and rich taste make it a standout for any occasion. With straightforward steps and versatile variations, this dessert brings a touch of homestyle warmth to every spoonful.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Optional: ½ tsp banana extract for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Process
- Make Custard: In a medium saucepan, whisk sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 8-10 minutes). Temper egg yolks by adding a small amount of hot mixture, then return to the pan. Cook 2 more minutes. Remove from heat; stir in butter, vanilla, and optional banana extract. Cool slightly.
- Layer Pudding: In a 2-quart dish, layer one-third of the vanilla wafers, one-third of the banana slices, and one-third of the custard. Repeat layers twice, ending with custard.
- Chill: Cover with plastic wrap, pressing onto the surface to prevent a skin. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble: Spread or pipe whipped cream over chilled pudding. Optionally, crumble extra wafers on top.
- Serve: Serve cold, scooping into bowls or glasses.
Tips for a Better Banana Pudding
- Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness
- Stir the custard constantly to prevent scorching
- Cool the custard slightly before layering to avoid soggy wafers
- Chill thoroughly for the best texture
- Whip cream just before serving for freshness
- Use a deep dish for even layers
- Cover tightly to prevent banana browning
- Serve within 24 hours for optimal flavor
Variations and Customization
- Chocolate Banana Pudding: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the custard
- Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl ¼ cup peanut butter into the custard
- Low-Sugar: Use a sugar substitute and reduce the wafers
- Vegan Pudding: Use plant-based milk, butter, and whipped topping
- Caramel Banana: Drizzle ¼ cup caramel sauce between layers
- Tropical Pudding: Add ½ cup crushed pineapple
- No-Bake Custard: Use instant vanilla pudding mix
- Bourbon Banana: Add 1 tbsp bourbon to the custard
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days
- Do not freeze, as bananas and custard degrade
- Serve with coffee, tea, or iced tea
- Scoop into parfait glasses for elegant presentation
- Add fresh banana slices just before serving
- Keep chilled for potlucks to maintain texture
- Garnish with extra wafers or whipped cream
- Pair with a light dessert wine or lemonade
Nutritional Information
The following nutritional information is approximate, based on 8 servings (about ¾ cup per serving):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 34g
- Protein: 6g
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin C: 10% of Daily Value
- Calcium: 15% of Daily Value
- Potassium: 12% of Daily Value
Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and optional ingredients like banana extract. Use a nutritional calculator for precise measurements. Banana pudding is high in sugars and fat due to custard and cream; low-sugar or vegan variations reduce calories or animal products. Bananas provide potassium and fiber, adding nutritional benefits.
Conclusion
This banana pudding recipe delivers a creamy, nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for any gathering, from casual potlucks to festive celebrations. Its rich custard and layered textures create a comforting treat that’s both indulgent and heartwarming. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a Southern classic that delights all ages. This recipe ensures a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Banana Pudding Recipe: Creamy Southern Classic
Ingredients
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 ripe bananas sliced
- 11 oz vanilla wafers
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Optional: ½ tsp banana extract
Instructions
- Cook sugar, flour, salt, milk; add yolks, cook until thick; stir in butter, vanilla
- Layer wafers, bananas, custard in dish; repeat twice
- Chill 4+ hours
- Whip cream with sugar; spread over the pudding
- Garnish with wafers; serve cold
Notes
- Use firm bananas
- Cool the custard before layering
- Store in fridge for 2 days; don’t freeze
- Serve with tea or coffee