Banana pudding is a classic Southern dessert that brings a taste of comfort and nostalgia with every bite. This creamy, luscious treat layers smooth vanilla pudding, sweet ripe bananas, and delicate vanilla wafers, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 3/4 cups milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
- Vanilla wafers
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and comes to a boil. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks.
- Slowly whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks to temper them.
- Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Pudding:
- In a 2-quart serving dish or individual cups, start with a layer of vanilla wafers.
- Add a layer of banana slices.
- Pour a portion of the pudding over the bananas.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
- Optional:
- Before serving, you can garnish the top with additional banana slices and a few vanilla wafers.
Enjoy your homemade banana pudding! If you need more variations or tips, just let me know.
