Description
This classic Southern Banana Pudding recipe is made from scratch with ripe bananas, creamy homemade vanilla pudding, and layers of vanilla wafers. It’s a comforting no-bake dessert that’s chilled to perfection and topped with whipped cream for a rich, silky finish.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pudding
- 3 cups whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For Assembly
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- Whipped cream (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add the cold milk to the egg yolks while whisking constantly, then gradually pour this mixture into the saucepan with the dry ingredients, whisking continually.
- Cook the pudding: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly to prevent lumps and scorching. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, approximately 8–10 minutes.
- Finish the pudding: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until the pudding is smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the layers.
- Layer the dessert: In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers followed by sliced bananas and then a layer of the warm pudding. Repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
- Chill the pudding: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set firmly.
- Serve: Before serving, top the pudding with whipped cream and garnish with extra banana slices or vanilla wafers if desired for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Slice bananas just before layering to prevent browning and keep the dessert fresh.
- For enhanced flavor and texture, lightly toast the vanilla wafers before assembling the pudding.
- You may substitute store-bought whipped cream with homemade whipped cream or meringue for topping.
