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Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes plus at least 4 hours chilling
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Description

This classic Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert featuring layers of smooth vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers. Made entirely from scratch with simple ingredients, this nostalgic favorite is perfect for family gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, Southern-style treat.

Ingredients

Pudding

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Layers

  • 1 box (approximately 8 ounces) vanilla wafers
  • 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced

Instructions

  1. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until evenly combined to ensure a smooth pudding base.
  2. Add milk gradually: Slowly whisk in the milk to the dry mixture to create a smooth batter without lumps.
  3. Cook pudding base: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, which indicates the starch is activating.
  4. Simmer gently: Lower the heat and continue cooking for 2 minutes while stirring constantly to fully develop the pudding’s creamy texture.
  5. Temper the eggs: In a small bowl, lightly beat the eggs, then very slowly add about ½ cup of the hot pudding mixture to the eggs while whisking to prevent curdling.
  6. Combine eggs and pudding: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously to integrate smoothly.
  7. Finish cooking pudding: Return the pan to medium heat and cook until the mixture gently boils, stirring constantly. Continue for 2 more minutes to ensure the pudding is fully cooked and thickened.
  8. Flavor and cool: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the pudding cool for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
  9. Layer wafers: In an 8-inch square baking dish, arrange about 25 vanilla wafers evenly on the bottom as the first layer.
  10. Add banana slices: Spread a layer of sliced ripe bananas over the wafers.
  11. Pour pudding: Pour half of the cooled pudding over the bananas and spread evenly.
  12. Repeat layering: Add another layer of vanilla wafers, bananas, and pour the remaining pudding on top.
  13. Cover and chill: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent skin formation, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
  14. Add topping and serve: Before serving, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top for added crunch and texture.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness in the layers.
  • Press the plastic wrap directly onto the pudding to prevent a skin from forming during chilling.
  • For a twist, add a layer of whipped cream on top before serving.
  • This pudding tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
  • You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk for a lighter version.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/old-fashioned-homemade-banana-pudding-recipe/