Description
Classic Southern-style banana pudding made with layers of creamy vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. This dessert is chilled to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld into a smooth, comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups milk
- 3 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Assembly
- 1 box vanilla wafers (about 8 oz)
- 4 bananas, sliced
Instructions
- Make the pudding base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt to combine evenly. Gradually add the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Place the pan over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens into a creamy pudding consistency.
- Temper and thicken the eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Slowly add some of the hot pudding mixture into the beaten eggs while whisking constantly to temper them and prevent scrambling. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens further and coats the back of a spoon.
- Add vanilla and assemble layers: Remove the pudding from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. In a serving dish, create layers by arranging a portion of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, then spooning over a layer of the warm pudding. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
- Chill and serve: Cover the assembled banana pudding and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until thoroughly chilled and set. This allows the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften slightly, creating a luscious dessert ready to enjoy.
Notes
- This pudding can be garnished with whipped cream or crushed vanilla wafers before serving for added texture.
- For a richer pudding, you can substitute part of the milk with half-and-half or cream.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Ensure gradual tempering of eggs to avoid curdling.
- Can be made a day ahead to enhance flavor melding.
