Fresh Homemade Banana Pudding

Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2–4 hours


Ingredients:

For the Pudding:

  • 3 cups whole milk (or a dairy alternative like almond milk)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For Assembly:

  • 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 box vanilla wafers (about 45 cookies)
  • Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

  1. Make the Pudding:
    • In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch.
    • Gradually add the milk while whisking to ensure no lumps form.
    • Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to bubble (about 7–10 minutes).
  2. Temper the Eggs:
    • In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Slowly add a ladle of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks while whisking to prevent curdling.
    • Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously.
  3. Cook the Pudding:
    • Continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the pudding is thick and creamy.
    • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
  4. Cool the Pudding:
    • Transfer the pudding to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and let it cool slightly at room temperature.
  5. Assemble the Banana Pudding:
    • In a trifle dish, 9×13-inch pan, or individual serving cups, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top.
    • Top with whipped cream and a few crushed vanilla wafers for garnish.
  6. Chill:
    • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld and the pudding set.
  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve cold and enjoy this comforting, homemade treat!

Tips:

  • Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
  • For added depth, try toasting the vanilla wafers slightly before layering.
  • If you love meringue, you can top the pudding with a layer of toasted meringue instead of whipped cream.

Let me know how it turns out! 🍮✨