Why make this recipe
Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding is a classic dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings and happy moments. This recipe is simple and lets you create a creamy, delicious treat that everyone will love. With layers of banana, vanilla wafers, and smooth pudding, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Making it at home allows you to enjoy the rich flavors and textures that you just can’t find in store-bought versions.
How to make Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Directions:
- In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in the milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks. Slowly temper the yolks by adding a bit of the hot pudding mixture to them, then return the egg yolk mixture to the saucepan.
- Cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
- In a serving dish, layer the vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Top with whipped cream if desired.
How to serve Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding
Serve this delightful banana pudding chilled. For a nice presentation, add a dollop of whipped cream on top and garnish with a slice of banana. You can also sprinkle some crushed vanilla wafers or a dusting of cinnamon for extra flair!
How to store Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 days. However, note that bananas may brown over time, so it’s best to add them just before serving if you plan to keep it for longer.
Tips to make Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Make sure to stir the pudding constantly while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- You can make the pudding a day in advance to save time on the day you plan to serve it.
Variation
For a chocolate twist, you can add cocoa powder to the pudding mixture or use chocolate wafers instead of vanilla. You can also experiment with adding layers of other fruits like strawberries or blueberries.
FAQs
1. Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, you can substitute almond milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly.
2. How long will the banana pudding last in the fridge?
It will last about 3 days in the refrigerator, but the bananas may brown over time.
3. Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding?
It is not recommended to freeze banana pudding since the texture can change when thawed, especially the bananas. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk Whole milk is recommended for creaminess.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons butter Unsalted is preferred.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box vanilla wafers About 12 oz.
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced Use ripe bananas for best flavor.
- to taste Whipped cream Optional for topping.
Method
- In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually stir in the milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks. Slowly temper the yolks by adding a bit of the hot pudding mixture to them, then return the egg yolk mixture to the saucepan.
- Cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
- In a serving dish, layer the vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding mixture.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve this delightful banana pudding chilled.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top and garnish with a slice of banana.
- Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers or a dusting of cinnamon for extra flair.
