How to Make Creamy Banana Pudding from Scratch

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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.

 

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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

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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.

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