How to Make Banana Pudding
Banana pudding is a classic, creamy dessert that combines layers of fresh bananas, velvety custard or pudding, and sweet cookies. It’s loved for its rich flavor, smooth texture, and comforting taste. Whether you serve it chilled or warm, banana pudding makes for a delightful treat for any occasion. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making it at home.
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Ingredients
3–4 ripe bananas (firm but sweet)
2 cups whole milk
½ cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch (or ¼ cup all-purpose flour)
3 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon butter
1 pack vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits
Whipped cream or meringue (optional for topping)
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Instructions
1. Prepare the Custard/Pudding
1. In a saucepan, combine milk and sugar. Heat over medium flame until warm but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with cornstarch until smooth.
3. Slowly pour a little of the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until it thickens into a pudding-like consistency.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract for a rich flavor.
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2. Slice the Bananas
Peel and slice the bananas into thin, even rounds to ensure every bite has a bit of banana.
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3. Layer the Pudding
1. In a serving dish or trifle bowl, spread a thin layer of pudding at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of banana slices.
3. Spread more pudding on top, then repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
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4. Add Topping
For extra indulgence, top with whipped cream or a light meringue. Sprinkle crushed wafers or a pinch of cinnamon for decoration.
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5. Chill and Serve
Cover the dish with plastic wrap (to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours. This allows the flavors to blend and the cookies to soften slightly.
Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness.
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Tips for the Best Banana Pudding
Use just-ripe bananas—overripe ones can make the pudding mushy.
If short on time, you can use instant vanilla pudding mix, but homemade custard gives the best flavor.
For a Southern-style twist, bake the pudding briefly with a meringue topping until golden.
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