American · Dessert · Easy
Banana Pudding
0.0 (0 ratings)- Total
- 4 hr 45 min
- Prep
- 4 hr 35 min
- Serves
- 8
- Calories
- 340
Vanilla wafers soften between layers of banana and homemade custard, with a soft whipped-cream topping over the chilled dessert.
Warm custard begins softening the wafers in Banana Pudding, then a long chill lets the layers settle. Cornstarch and egg yolks thicken the milk into a filling that holds a spoonful without becoming stiff.
Use ripe but firm bananas so the slices keep their shape. Cover them fully with custard to limit browning, and give the assembled pudding time to turn the crisp cookies cake-like.
Method
Whisk sugar, cornstarch and salt in a saucepan. Gradually whisk in milk and egg yolks until smooth.
Cook over medium heat for , whisking constantly, until thick bubbles break the surface and the custard reaches at least 160°F. Continue whisking at a gentle bubble for the final of that time.
Remove from the heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Cool for , stirring occasionally.
Layer vanilla wafers, bananas and custard in a 2-quart dish, finishing with custard that covers the fruit. Cover and refrigerate for .
Whip heavy cream to soft peaks and spread over the chilled pudding before serving.
Forkue tips
- Keep the whisk moving into the corners of the saucepan, where the custard can catch first.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. The bananas gradually darken and the wafers become softer; freezing makes the custard and fruit watery.
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Kitchen gear
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Photo: Alabama Extension, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped and enhanced)
Banana Pudding: FAQ
Can I use instant pudding?
It makes a different filling with its own milk ratio. The stovetop custard here provides the body and vanilla flavor for these layers.
Why is the custard runny?
The cornstarch needs a brief gentle bubble to thicken fully. Cook until visible bubbles break the thickened surface while whisking.
How do I store and reheat Banana Pudding?
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. The bananas gradually darken and the wafers become softer; freezing makes the custard and fruit watery.
How long does Banana Pudding take?
About 4 hr 45 min in total: 4 hr 35 min prep and 10 min cooking.
What do I need to make Banana Pudding?
The key ingredients are milk, cornstarch, egg yolks, butter, vanilla extract and vanilla wafers, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Banana Pudding?
Keep the whisk moving into the corners of the saucepan, where the custard can catch first.
