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Banana Pudding

A classic Southern dessert featuring layers of creamy custard, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Custard
  • 2 cups milk Whole milk is recommended for richer custard.
  • 1/2 cup sugar Adjust if you want a lower sugar option.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch For thickening the custard.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large egg yolks Use fresh eggs for better flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Use real vanilla for best results.
For the Layers
  • 4 ripe bananas Slice just before layering to prevent browning.
  • 1 box vanilla wafers Fresh vanilla wafers or similar cookies.
  • Whipped cream for topping

Method
 

Prepare Custard
  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add the milk while whisking to break up lumps.
  2. Stir the mixture constantly over medium heat until it thickens and becomes glossy. It should coat the back of a spoon.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Temper the yolks by slowly whisking in a little hot custard.
  4. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, stirring quickly, and cook for an additional minute until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Layer Pudding
  1. In a large bowl or dish, lay down a single layer of vanilla wafers.
  2. Add a layer of banana slices followed by a layer of custard, repeating until all ingredients are combined.
  3. Top with whipped cream and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

For firmer wafers, add a final layer of whole wafers on top before whipped cream. Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.