Indulge in the classic comfort of “Southern Comfort: Creamy Banana Pudding.” This beloved dessert features layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers, all topped with a fluffy whipped cream or meringue. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet treat anytime, this banana pudding is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Banana Pudding:

• Classic Comfort: A traditional Southern dessert that’s loved by all ages.
• Creamy and Rich: Smooth pudding combined with ripe bananas and vanilla wafers.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for preparing in advance, allowing the flavors to meld.

Ingredients Notes For Creamy Banana Pudding:

• Vanilla Wafers: Classic vanilla wafers for layering.
• Bananas: Ripe bananas, sliced for layering.
• Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: For a quick and easy pudding base.
• Milk: Cold milk to prepare the pudding.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds extra creaminess and sweetness.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped for a light and fluffy topping.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.

Recipe Steps:

1. Prepare the Pudding:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 box (5.1 ounces) of instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups of cold milk, and 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk. Whisk together until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.
2. Fold in Whipped Cream:
   • In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until well combined.
3. Layer the Pudding:
   • In a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large trifle bowl, start with a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, then a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding.
4. Top with Whipped Cream:
   • Whip an additional 1 cup of heavy cream with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the pudding.
5. Chill:
   • Refrigerate the banana pudding for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
6. Serve:
   • Just before serving, garnish with extra vanilla wafers or banana slices if desired.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Make Creamy Banana Pudding from Scratch

No ratings yet

Rate this Recipe Pin this recipe for later! Share The Yum On Facebook

Print Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 box vanilla wafers about 12 ounces
• 4-5 ripe bananas sliced
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding:

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
• Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
• Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble.
• In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs.
• Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
• Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the pudding is thick and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until the butter is melted and fully incorporated.

Assemble the Pudding:

• In a 9x13-inch baking dish or a large trifle dish, spread a thin layer of the pudding on the bottom.
• Add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of banana slices.
• Pour about a third of the pudding over the bananas and wafers, spreading it evenly.
• Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of pudding.

Make the Whipped Cream:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
• Spread the whipped cream over the top of the pudding.

Chill:

• Cover the pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.

Serve:

• Just before serving, garnish with additional banana slices and vanilla wafers if desired.

Did You Make This Recipe?

Be sure to share with me on Instagram, Pinterest, or Youtube!

Rate this Recipe Pin this recipe for later! Share The Yum On Facebook