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Classic Banana Pudding Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This classic Banana Pudding recipe features layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and crisp vanilla wafers. The smooth, homemade pudding is made by tempering egg yolks with warm milk and cream, then thickening on the stovetop with cornstarch for a luscious texture. After layering with bananas and wafers, the pudding chills for a few hours to set perfectly, creating a delightful and comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pudding

  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Layers

  • 1 box vanilla wafers
  • 4 ripe bananas

Instructions

  1. Combine Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream.
  2. Warm the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally, warming the mixture until hot but not boiling.
  3. Whisk Dry Ingredients and Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
  4. Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour a small amount of the warm milk and cream into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the remaining warm milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture, continuing to whisk constantly for an even blend.
  6. Return to Heat: Pour the entire mixture back into the saucepan.
  7. Cook Until Thickened: Place the saucepan on medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens and starts to bubble.
  8. Remove from Heat: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat.
  9. Add Flavor and Butter: Stir in the vanilla extract and unsalted butter until fully incorporated for richness and aroma.
  10. Cool Slightly: Allow the pudding to cool for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
  11. Layer Vanilla Wafers: Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of a large serving dish.
  12. Add Banana Slices: Slice the bananas into thin rounds and layer them on top of the vanilla wafers.
  13. Pour Pudding: Once the pudding has cooled slightly, pour it over the bananas and wafers, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  14. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of vanilla wafers over the pudding, followed by another layer of banana slices.
  15. Top with Remaining Pudding: Pour the remaining pudding over the top layer of bananas, smoothing it out evenly.
  16. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours, allowing it to set properly.
  17. Serve: Once chilled and set, serve the banana pudding cold, optionally garnishing with extra vanilla wafers or whipped cream.

Notes

  • Make sure not to let the milk mixture boil to avoid curdling the eggs.
  • Tempering the eggs carefully is crucial to prevent scrambling.
  • For best texture, use ripe but firm bananas that hold their shape well in the pudding.
  • Chilling time of at least 4 hours is important for the pudding to fully set and flavors to meld.
  • If desired, substitute whole milk with 2% milk for a lighter version, though creaminess will be slightly reduced.
  • Vanilla wafers add a delicate crunch that softens with chilling, balancing the creamy pudding and tender bananas.

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Find it online: https://flavorfulkitchentable.com/classic-banana-pudding-recipe/