If you’re craving a dessert that’s both comforting and irresistible, look no further than our Best Banana Pudding. This classic treat layers creamy vanilla pudding with ripe bananas and buttery vanilla wafers, creating a dessert that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or just treating yourself, this banana pudding is a true crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to make this deliciously creamy and indulgent dessert!
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 3/4 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box (12 oz) vanilla wafers
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and starts to bubble, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
- Pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, whisking to combine.
- Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for another 2-3 minutes until the pudding is thick and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Allow the pudding to cool slightly before using.
Step 2: Assemble the Banana Pudding
- In a large trifle dish or individual serving bowls, start by placing a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
- Top the wafers with a layer of sliced bananas.
- Spread a layer of pudding over the bananas, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
- 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.
- Before serving, you can top the pudding with whipped cream and additional vanilla wafers, if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Banana Ripeness: Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from becoming too mushy in the pudding.
- Alternate Flavors: Add a layer of chocolate pudding or fresh berries for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Make Ahead: This pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Our Best Banana Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines creamy vanilla pudding with the sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of vanilla wafers. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a special treat for yourself.
We’d love to see how your banana pudding turns out! Share your pudding creations in the comments or tag us on social media with your delicious dessert.