Description

This classic Banana Pudding is a creamy, indulgent dessert featuring layers of smooth vanilla pudding, ripe banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafers. The pudding is cooked on the stovetop by tempering egg yolks into a thickened milk mixture for a luscious texture. Chill the layered dessert for at least 3 hours to allow flavors to meld perfectly before topping with whipped cream or extra bananas. Perfect for any occasion, this homemade treat offers a delightful balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements.

Ingredients

Scale

Pudding Ingredients

3 cups whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Assembly Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafers (about 50 wafers)
Whipped cream for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Combine dry ingredients and milk: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt until well mixed. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, making sure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Cook pudding base: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture while stirring constantly. Continue until the mixture thickens noticeably and reaches a gentle boil, about 6 to 8 minutes.
Temper the egg yolks: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks thoroughly. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture from the saucepan to gently raise the egg temperature without scrambling.
Combine and cook again: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Continue whisking constantly over medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the pudding thickens further. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
Cool the pudding: Allow the pudding to cool slightly for about 10 minutes to thicken more and become easier to handle.
Layer the pudding: In a large serving dish or individual glasses, alternate layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and the prepared pudding. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a smooth layer of pudding on top.
Chill the dessert: Cover the surface of the pudding directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to fully set and allow the flavors to meld.
Serve and garnish: Before serving, optionally top the pudding with whipped cream, additional banana slices, or crumbled vanilla wafers for extra texture and presentation.

Notes

For best texture, ensure constant stirring to avoid lumps during pudding preparation.
Tempering the eggs is critical to prevent curdling and achieve a silky pudding.
Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness in the layers.
Placing plastic wrap directly on the pudding surface during chilling prevents a thick skin from forming.
This dessert can be assembled in individual glasses for elegant presentation or a large trifle bowl for serving at parties.