The Best Banana Pudding Ever

Who doesn’t love a creamy, delicious banana pudding? This classic dessert is a favorite for many, with its layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and fluffy whipped cream. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a special treat, this recipe is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to make the best banana pudding ever.

Ingredients

For the pudding:

2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 cups whole milk
4 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the layers:

1 box (12 ounces) vanilla wafers
4 ripe bananas, sliced

For the whipped cream:

2 cups heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the pudding

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, whisking constantly.

Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the layers

In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, begin by layering one-third of the vanilla wafers on the bottom. Top with one-third of the sliced bananas, followed by one-third of the pudding. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.

Step 3: Make the whipped cream

In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top layer of pudding.

Step 4: Chill and serve

Cover the banana pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together and for the pudding to set. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Variations

While this recipe is already delicious as is, there are a few variations you can try to switch things up:

1. Chocolate Banana Pudding:

Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the pudding mixture to create a rich, chocolatey flavor. You can also sprinkle some chocolate shavings between the layers for added indulgence.

2. Toasted Coconut Banana Pudding:

Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of each layer of pudding to add a tropical twist to the dessert. The coconut pairs perfectly with the creamy banana flavor.

3. Peanut Butter Banana Pudding:

For all the peanut butter lovers out there, add 1/2 cup of smooth peanut butter to the pudding mixture. The combination of peanut butter and bananas is simply irresistible.

Tips

Follow these tips to ensure your banana pudding turns out perfectly:

Use ripe bananas for the best flavor. They should be yellow with a few brown spots.
Allow the pudding to cool slightly before assembling the layers to prevent the wafers from becoming too soft.
For a more decorative presentation, reserve a few wafers and banana slices to garnish the top of the pudding.
Make sure to refrigerate the pudding for the recommended time to allow it to set properly.

Conclusion

Banana pudding is a classic dessert that never fails to please. With its layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s a treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. By following this recipe and incorporating the suggested variations, you can create the best banana pudding ever. So go ahead, indulge your taste buds and enjoy this timeless dessert!

FAQs

1. Can I use instant pudding mix instead of making the pudding from scratch?

Yes, you can use instant pudding mix if you’re short on time. Simply prepare the instant pudding according to the package instructions and layer it with the wafers and bananas as directed in the recipe.

2. How long will the banana pudding last in the refrigerator?

The banana pudding will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two to ensure the wafers maintain their texture.

3. Can I use a different type of cookie instead of vanilla wafers?

Absolutely! While vanilla wafers are traditional, you can experiment with different cookies such as shortbread, graham crackers, or even chocolate chip cookies for a unique twist.