Forget everything you know about store-bought pudding mixes! This homemade banana pudding is a creamy, dreamy dessert that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen. With layers of silky smooth custard, ripe bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers, this recipe is about to become your new obsession. Say goodbye to artificial flavors and hello to a dessert so delicious, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Vanilla wafers
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually pour milk into the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble.
- In a separate bowl, carefully separate egg yolks and whisk them lightly.
- Temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the hot milk mixture while whisking rapidly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly over medium heat until the pudding becomes thick and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the pudding to a clean bowl and cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to cool.
- In a serving dish, create layers starting with vanilla wafers, then sliced bananas, and pour the cooled pudding over them.
- Top the pudding with whipped cream and garnish with additional vanilla wafers and banana slices.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set completely.
Tips
- Choose perfectly ripe bananas with just a few brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Temper your egg yolks carefully to prevent scrambling - add hot mixture slowly while whisking constantly.
- Use plastic wrap directly on the pudding's surface to prevent a skin from forming while cooling.
- For extra richness, use whole milk or even replace part of the milk with heavy cream.
- Make sure to chill the pudding for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld and achieve the perfect texture.
- For a decorative touch, reserve some banana slices and wafers for garnishing the top of the dessert.
- If you want a smoother pudding, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 340kcal
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
