How to Make Creamy Banana Pudding from Scratch
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the banana pudding for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
- 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
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.
