This nostalgic Banana Pudding is made entirely from scratch, delivering layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and crispy vanilla wafers. Perfect for any occasion, it's a classic dessert that never goes out of style!
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- 8x8 baking dish
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups milk (whole milk works best)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Layers:
- 1 box Vanilla Wafers (about 8 oz)
- 4 bananas, sliced
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vanilla Pudding
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
2. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
4. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Temper the Eggs
1. Remove the saucepan from the heat. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs until well-beaten.
2. Gradually add a few spoonfuls of the hot pudding mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly, to temper them.
3. Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking as you go.
3. Finish the Pudding
1. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook until the pudding starts to gently boil. Continue cooking for 2 more minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let the pudding cool for about 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent a skin from forming.
4. Assemble the Banana Pudding
1. In an 8x8 baking dish, arrange about 25 vanilla wafers in a single layer on the bottom.
2. Top the wafers with half of the banana slices.
3. Pour half of the pudding mixture over the bananas, spreading evenly.
4. Repeat the layers: another layer of wafers, bananas, and the remaining pudding on top.
5. Chill and Serve
1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. Just before serving, crush some of the remaining wafers and sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
3. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Bananas: Use ripe bananas with a few brown spots for the sweetest flavor.
- Layering: Press the wafers slightly into the pudding for better layering and flavor.
- Make-Ahead: This dessert tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
This homemade Banana Pudding is rich, creamy, and the perfect crowd-pleaser. Serve it at your next family gathering or just treat yourself to a comforting classic! 🍌🥄