The Best Banana Pudding
Discover the best banana pudding recipe that's perfect for any occasion! This classic Southern dessert features layers of creamy homemade custard, ripe bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers. Follow our easy, step-by-step instructions and enjoy tips for fun variations like adding a boozy twist or a chocolate drizzle. Perfect for family gatherings or a sweet treat at home, this banana pudding is sure to become a favorite. Click to get the recipe and bring a taste of the South to your kitchen!
Equipment
- Medium Saucepan: For making the custard.
- Mixing Bowls: For whisking ingredients and preparing the whipped topping.
- Whisk: To combine ingredients smoothly and avoid lumps in the custard.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Spatula: To stir and scrape the custard mixture.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: For whipping the cream to stiff peaks.
- Large Trifle Dish or 9x13-inch Baking Dish: For assembling the pudding layers.
- Plastic Wrap: To cover the pudding while it chills.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the bananas.
Ingredients
- 6 Ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 Box Vanilla wafers (12 oz)
- 2 Cups Milk
- 1 Cup Heavy cream
- 1 Cup Granulated sugar
- 5 Large eggs yolks
- 1/4 Cup Cornstarch
- 1/4 Tsp Salt
- 2 Tsp Vanilla extract
for topping:
- 1 Cup Heavy whipping cream
- 2 Tbsp Powdered sugar
- 1 Tsp Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard:In a medium saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling the eggs.Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Pudding:In a large bowl or trifle dish, layer the vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas.Pour a layer of custard over the bananas and wafers.Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of custard.
- Chill:Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Whipped Topping:In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pudding.
- Serve:Garnish with additional banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers if desired.Serve chilled and enjoy!