Banana Pudding Recipe

Banana pudding is a classic dessert that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This beginner-friendly recipe includes layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers. Here’s a detailed guide to creating a delicious banana pudding at home:

Ingredients:

For the Pudding:

• 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1/3 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 3 cups Whole Milk
• 3 large Egg Yolks: Lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
• 2 tsp Vanilla Extract

For the Assembly:

• 4-5 ripe Bananas: Sliced
• 1 box Vanilla Wafers: About 12 ounces
• 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
• 2 tbsp Powdered Sugar
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract

Equipment:

• Medium Saucepan: For cooking the pudding.
• Whisk: For stirring the pudding.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: For whipping the cream.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish or Trifle Bowl: For assembling the pudding.
• Plastic Wrap: To cover the pudding.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pudding:
   • In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
   • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken, about 10 minutes.
   • Once thickened, reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
2. Temper the Eggs:
   • In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Gradually whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot pudding mixture into the egg yolks to temper them, preventing the eggs from scrambling.
   • Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
3. Cook the Pudding:
   • Continue to cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding is thick and smooth.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Cool the Pudding:
   • Transfer the pudding to a mixing bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
   • Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Whip the Cream:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
   • Use an electric mixer to whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
6. Assemble the Banana Pudding:
   • In a 9×13-inch baking dish or trifle bowl, start by spreading a thin layer of pudding on the bottom.
   • Add a layer of vanilla wafers over the pudding.
   • Top the wafers with a layer of sliced bananas.
   • Spread a portion of the pudding over the bananas, smoothing it out with a spatula.
   • Repeat the layers (wafers, bananas, pudding) until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding.
7. Top with Whipped Cream:
   • Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top layer of pudding.
8. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
   • Serve chilled, scooping into bowls or onto plates.

Tips for Success:

• Banana Ripeness: Use ripe but firm bananas to ensure they hold their shape in the pudding.
• Layering: Make sure to evenly distribute the layers for a balanced flavor in each bite.
• Overnight Chill: Letting the pudding sit overnight allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Variations:

• Nilla Wafer Crust: Crush some vanilla wafers and mix with melted butter to create a crust at the bottom of the dish.
• Chocolate Banana Pudding: Add a layer of chocolate pudding or sprinkle chocolate chips between the layers.
• Banana Pudding Parfaits: Assemble the pudding in individual cups for a fun and portable dessert option.

This beginner-friendly banana pudding recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a creamy, sweet, and satisfying treat. Enjoy the delightful combination of fresh bananas, rich pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers in every bite!