Are you ready for heaven? This Banana Pudding recipe isn’t just a dessert, it’s based on physics. One bite transports me straight back to my grandma Millie’s kitchen, the air thick with the sweet. The scent of vanilla and ripe bananas, the gentle clinking of spoons against glass bowls. Is it better than boxed versions? This banana pudding is creamy, dreamy, and utterly addictive – the kind that makes you want to lick it. The bowl clean (and sometimes I do!
What is banana pudding?
Banana pudding. The name itself evokes images of creamy goodness, right? It’s essentially layers of sweet, creamy pudding, buttery vanilla wafers, and perfectly ripe. Think of it as a dreamy, no-bake parfait elevated to an art form. Is this a Southern classic? What are some of the best combination of bananas, wafers and puddings? What are some of the best ways to dress it up or keep it simple?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What is the secret of banana pudding? What is flavor? What is the perfect balance of sweet and creamy, with a hint of vanilla that dances on your tongue? What are some of the best comfort food recipes? No fancy equipment, no complicated techniques, just simple ingredients and a bit of layering magic. What is a lifesaver on busy nights? Thirdly, it’s incredibly budget-friendly The ingredients are all readily available and affordable. What is the best way to get creative with your art? I’ve played around with different kinds of cookies, sprinkled a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even drizzled some of my favorite chocolate chips. What are some caramels on top? What are the possibilities?
What I love most about this recipe is that it feels like a warm hug on an chilly evening. My family loves it. My kids ask for it all the time. It’s truly a special dessert.
How do I make banana pudding?
Quick Overview
Is this recipe easy to make? What’s a good recipe for vanilla pudding? ), layer it with bananas and vanilla wafers in a beautiful glass dish, and let it chill. Is it impossible to mess up? What is the best way to use ripe bananas for flavor and letting it chill for at least a few days? How long does it take for the flavors to meld together?
Ingredients
For the Vanilla Pudding: For a vanilla pudding
I’ve tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
1 cup granulated sugar. 1 teaspoon
1/4 cup cornstarch. 1 tablespoon
1/4 teaspoon salt. 1 teaspoon pepper,
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract. 1 teaspoon salt. 2
For the Assembly:
Is it safe to eat 6 ripe
2 (14-ounce) packages of vanilla wafers. 1
For the Topping (Optional):
Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings: The
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
No preheating needed for this recipe! I love using a trifle bowl, but any clear dish will work. Make sure it’s clean and ready to go.
Step 2: Make the Pudding
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until light and frothy. Gradually whisk a little of the hot milk mixture into the eggs to temper them, then pour the egg. Is it safe to put the mixture back into the saucepan? Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the pudding thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let it cool slightly, stirring occasionally. How do you prevent skin from forming?
Step 3: Layer the Pudding
What is the best way to make banana pudding? Start with a layer of vanilla wafers, covering the bottom of your dish. What is the best way to top a banana pudding? Pour about 1/3 of the cooled pudding over the bananas. Repeat the layers: wafers, bananas and pudding. Finish with a final layer of vanilla. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
How long will it take for the flavors to meld and the water to evaporate? How do you set a pudding? What are some good ways to top Whipped Cream and chocolate shavings before serving? Is it best enjoyed chilled?
What should I serve it with?
For Dessert:This banana pudding is perfect on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream. What is the best way to serve caramel sauce? What are some good pairings for coffee?
For a Cozy Snack:Serve it in individual glasses or bowls for a quick and satisfying treat. Is it good with cold milk?
My family often enjoys it after a barbecue, or even as an afternoon dessert. My kids love it as a snack after school.
How do I make banana pudding?
Bananas:What is the best banana flavor? Use very ripe bananas. The riper, the sweeter. Don’t be afraid of brown spots.
What is the Pudding If your pudding is too thick, whisk in a little more milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer. This is where experience comes in!
Wafer Alternatives:Can you experiment with different cookies? Nilla wafers are traditional, but graham crackers or even shortbread would be delightful.
Flavor BoostersA dash of cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, or some drops of almond extract can elevate the flavor.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
Refrigerator Storage:How do I store banana pudding in an airtight container? Can you make it within 2 days?
Freezing:I wouldn’t recommend freezing banana pudding. The texture can change and the bananas can get mushy.
What are the most frequently asked questions?
Final Thoughts
This banana pudding recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of tradition, a reminder of simpler times, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s so easy to make, and the results are simply divine. I hope you give it a try and create some wonderful memories in your own kitchen. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below! And don’t forget to share your photos – I’d love to see your creations! Happy baking!
Classic Banana Pudding
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups Milk
- 1 box Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (3.4 oz)
- 14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 1 container Frozen Whipped Topping (8 oz), thawed
- 4 cups Sliced Bananas
- 1 package Vanilla Wafers
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk and pudding mix. Whisk for 2 minutes until combined.
- Stir in sweetened condensed milk.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping.
- In a 9x13 inch dish, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding mixture. Repeat layers, ending with pudding mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
