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Creamy Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers Recipe

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Description

A classic and creamy Banana Pudding recipe that layers smooth vanilla pudding with ripe bananas and crunchy vanilla wafers, topped with fluffy whipped cream. This comforting Southern dessert is perfect for gatherings and can be prepared ahead of time.

Ingredients

Pudding

  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Assembly

  • 3 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 box vanilla wafers (about 50 wafers)
  • Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix dry ingredients and milk: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
  2. Cook the pudding base: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to gently boil, about 6 to 8 minutes. This helps activate the cornstarch and prevent lumps.
  3. Temper the egg yolks: Remove the saucepan from heat. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to gently raise the temperature of the eggs, preventing them from scrambling.
  4. Combine and finish cooking: Pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Return to medium-low heat and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the pudding thickens further. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
  5. Cool the pudding: Allow the pudding to cool slightly for about 10 minutes, so it’s not too hot when assembling the dessert layers.
  6. Assemble the layers: In a serving dish or individual glasses, create alternating layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
  7. Chill the pudding: Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate the pudding for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften slightly.
  8. Add toppings and serve: Before serving, optionally top with whipped cream, extra banana slices, or crumbled vanilla wafers for added texture and presentation.

Notes

  • For a thicker pudding, let it cook a bit longer while stirring constantly.
  • Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
  • Placing plastic wrap directly on the pudding surface prevents a skin from forming.
  • This dessert is best served chilled but can be kept refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Substitute whole milk with half-and-half for a richer pudding.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/creamy-banana-pudding-with-vanilla-wafers-recipe/