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Easy and Delicious Banana Pudding Recipe

Banana Pudding is a classic, creamy dessert layered with sweet vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and vanilla wafers. Topped with whipped cream or meringue, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pudding:

  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Layers:

  • 45 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 box (12 oz) vanilla wafers

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pudding:
    • In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
    • Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens further.
    • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth. Allow the pudding to cool slightly.
  • Layer the Pudding:
    • In a trifle dish, casserole dish, or individual serving cups, start with a layer of vanilla wafers.
    • Add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a layer of pudding.
    • Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
  • Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
    • In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  • Assemble and Garnish:
    • Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top layer of pudding. Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or additional banana slices if desired.
  • Chill and Serve:
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • To prevent bananas from browning, toss them lightly in lemon juice before layering.
  • For a shortcut, use instant vanilla pudding mix instead of making the pudding from scratch.
  • This dessert is best enjoyed within 1-2 days as the bananas may start to soften over time.

Keywords: Banana Pudding, classic dessert, layered pudding dessert, vanilla pudding recipe, banana dessert, creamy pudding, no-bake banana pudding, potluck dessert, comfort food dessert, vanilla wafers dessert