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Delicious classic banana pudding served in a bowl with fresh bananas

Classic Banana Pudding

A nostalgic dessert featuring layers of creamy pudding, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers, perfect for gatherings and cozy nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces ripe bananas, sliced Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
  • 1 box vanilla wafers Graham crackers can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 cups milk Can be substituted with almond or coconut milk for a vegan version.
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large egg yolks Be careful to temper the yolks well.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whipped cream Optional topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add the milk, mixing continuously.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to boil.
  3. In a bowl, mix the egg yolks and slowly add a small amount of the hot pudding mixture to temper the yolks.
  4. Pour the tempered mixture back into the saucepan and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Assembly
  1. In a serving dish, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
  2. Top with whipped cream if desired and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Notes

For a twist, try adding some peanut butter to the pudding. You can also mix in some chocolate wafers for variety. Make sure to refrigerate for 4 hours for the best flavor and texture.