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Classic Banana Pudding
This creamy banana pudding is layered with ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a rich homemade pudding mixture. It is an easy, comforting dessert that is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pudding
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 cups whole milk
4 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Cream Layer
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly
5 medium ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafers, about 11 ounces
1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers, for topping
Preparation Steps
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking until the mixture is smooth.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens and begins to bubble.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add about 1 cup of the hot pudding mixture to the yolks while whisking continuously.
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover the surface directly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.
In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the chilled pudding until light and creamy.
Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers in the bottom of a large serving dish.
Add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a generous layer of the pudding mixture.
Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
Spread the remaining whipped cream evenly over the pudding.
Decorate with whole and crushed vanilla wafers.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, so the wafers soften and the flavors blend.
Serving Tip
Add the final banana slices just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent browning.
