Let’s do banana pudding, nice and detailed, Southern-style and extra creamy.
Banana Pudding (Detailed, Classic Recipe)
Ingredients
For the pudding
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks (save whites if you want meringue)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For layering
- 4–5 ripe bananas (yellow with a few brown spots)
- 1 box vanilla wafers (Nilla Wafers)
Optional topping
- Whipped cream or
- Meringue (traditional Southern style)
Step 1: Make the Pudding
- In a saucepan (off heat), whisk together:
- Sugar
- Flour
- Salt
- Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Place saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Cook until thickened (about 8–10 minutes).
- It should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 2: Temper the Egg Yolks (Important!)
- In a bowl, lightly beat egg yolks.
- Slowly whisk ½ cup of hot pudding into the yolks.
- Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
- Cook 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
⚠️ Do not boil — or you’ll get scrambled eggs.
Step 3: Finish the Pudding
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in:
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
- Let cool slightly (5 minutes).
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
- In a baking dish or trifle bowl:
- Layer vanilla wafers
- Add sliced bananas
- Spread warm pudding on top
- Repeat layers until ingredients are used.
- Finish with pudding on top.
Step 5: Add Topping (Optional)
Whipped Cream (Easy)
- Spread freshly whipped cream on top.
Meringue (Traditional)
- Beat reserved egg whites until soft peaks.
- Gradually add ¼ cup sugar.
- Beat until stiff, glossy peaks.
- Spread over pudding, sealing edges.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until lightly browned.
Step 6: Chill
- Refrigerate at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
- Flavors meld and pudding sets perfectly.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe but firm bananas so they don’t get mushy.
- Layer pudding while warm for softer wafers.
- For thicker pudding, add 1 extra tablespoon flour.
- Sprinkle crushed wafers on top for texture.
Easy Shortcut Version (If You Want Fast)
- Instant vanilla pudding + cold milk
- Fold in whipped topping
- Layer with bananas + wafers
- Chill and serve