Classic Homemade Banana Pudding 

Classic Homemade Banana Pudding 

Introduction

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of creamy, homemade banana pudding. It’s the kind of dessert that brings back childhood memories — sweet, silky custard layered with fresh bananas and soft vanilla wafers, all coming together in perfect harmony.

This Classic Banana Pudding is a southern favorite and a true crowd-pleaser. It’s rich yet light, sweet yet balanced, and it only gets better as it chills. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, picnic, or holiday table, this dessert is always the first to disappear.

Made from scratch (or with a few simple shortcuts), it’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist — the ultimate comfort dessert in every spoonful.

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

• 4 cups whole milk

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

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• 4 large egg yolks

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon butter

• A pinch of salt

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For the Layers:

• 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

• 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 ounces)

• 1 cup heavy cream (optional for whipped topping)

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (if making whipped cream)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pudding Base:

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.

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• Add milk gradually while whisking to avoid lumps.

• In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth.

• Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble (about 5–7 minutes).

2. Temper the Eggs:

• Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly.

• Then pour the tempered eggs back into the saucepan.

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• Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes, stirring continuously, until the pudding becomes thick and creamy.

3. Add Butter and Vanilla:

• Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.

• Mix until the butter melts completely and the pudding is smooth.

• Set aside to cool slightly (about 10–15 minutes).

4. Assemble the Banana Pudding:

• In a large glass bowl or dish, start by spreading a thin layer of pudding at the bottom.

• Add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas.

• Spoon more pudding over the top to cover the bananas completely.

• Repeat the layers (wafers → bananas → pudding) until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a pudding layer on top.

5. Add the Topping:

• If desired, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form and spread it over the final pudding layer.

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• Alternatively, you can use whipped topping for convenience.

6. Chill Before Serving:

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap (press it gently against the surface to prevent skin formation).

• Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Success

• Use ripe but firm bananas — they should be sweet and aromatic, not overly soft.

• Chill the pudding before layering to prevent the wafers from getting soggy too quickly.

• For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed pecans between layers.

Conclusion

This Classic Homemade Banana Pudding is pure Southern comfort in a bowl — creamy, dreamy, and filled with layers of nostalgia. Each bite blends the softness of bananas, the smoothness of vanilla pudding, and the melt-in-your-mouth texture of wafers.

It’s simple enough for everyday indulgence yet elegant enough for special occasions. Serve it chilled, share it with love, and watch how it brings smiles around the table. Because some desserts aren’t just recipes — they’re memories made sweet. 🍌💛