Homemade Banana Pudding From Scratch
Indulge in the classic comfort of Homemade Banana Pudding, crafted entirely from scratch for a truly authentic experience. This nostalgic dessert layers creamy, vanilla-infused custard with ripe bananas and the satisfying crunch of Nilla Wafer cookies.
The homemade pudding is rich and smooth, offering a delightful contrast to the fresh bananas and cookies. Whether topped with a golden meringue or a dollop of whipped cream, this dessert evokes the warmth of home-cooked goodness.
Perfect for family gatherings or simply treating yourself, this banana pudding is a timeless favorite that brings a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Authentic and Nostalgic Flavor: This recipe captures the classic, comforting taste of traditional banana pudding, reminiscent of beloved family gatherings and cherished memories. The homemade custard, infused with vanilla, offers a rich and authentic flavor that store-bought versions simply can’t match.
Creamy and Decadent Texture: The custard is made from scratch, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency that perfectly complements the layers of ripe bananas and crisp Nilla Wafer cookies. This combination of textures creates a delightful eating experience in every spoonful.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, ripe bananas and real ingredients elevates the quality of the dessert, providing a natural sweetness and flavor that enhances the overall dish. The freshness of the ingredients shines through, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
Versatile and Customizable: Whether topped with a light meringue or a generous spread of whipped cream, this pudding can be tailored to personal preferences. The option to garnish with banana slices or maraschino cherries allows for creative presentation, adding a personal touch to the dessert.
Simple Yet Impressive: Despite its simplicity, this homemade banana pudding is a crowd-pleaser that impresses with its taste and presentation. It’s an ideal dessert for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations, offering a comforting and indulgent treat that everyone will enjoy.
Key Ingredients:
Sugar: Provides the essential sweetness for the custard, balancing the flavors of the dessert and complementing the natural sugars in the bananas.
Flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the custard, helping achieve the smooth, creamy texture that is key to a perfect pudding.
Milk: Serves as the base for the custard, contributing to its rich and creamy consistency. Whole milk is often preferred for its full-bodied texture, but other types can be used depending on dietary preferences.
Eggs: The egg yolks enrich the custard with a velvety texture and add depth to the flavor, while the whites can be used to create a fluffy meringue topping.
Vanilla Flavoring: Infuses the custard with a warm, aromatic sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the pudding.
Bananas: Provide natural sweetness and a fresh, fruity element that pairs beautifully with the creamy custard and crisp cookies.
Nilla Wafer Cookies: Add a delightful crunch and a subtle vanilla flavor, creating a satisfying contrast to the smooth custard and soft bananas.
Homemade Banana Pudding From Scratch
Ingredients
½ cup sugar
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla flavoring
4 large eggs, separated
4 medium ripe bananas
Nilla Wafer Cookies
Instructions
Step 1:
In a large saucepan over low heat, mix the flour, sugar and salt
Slowly add the milk while whisking
Step 2:
Stir and cook for 15 minutes, until it begins to thicken
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and slowly stir these into the mixture
Step 3:
Cook for 5 more minutes and remove from the heat
Stir in the vanilla flavoring
Step 4:
Line the bottom of a casserole dish with the Nilla Wafer Cookies
Place a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafer cookies
Spoon some pudding over the bananas and spread evenly
Step 5:
Repeat the layers, you should end with the pudding on the top
If you choose to use meringue, beat the egg whites in a bowl until they are stiff
Step 6:
Add ¼ cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form, spread this on top of the custard and bake for 5 minutes or until lightly browned.
If you are using a whipped topping, spoon the whipped topping on top of the pudding and spread out evenly.
This can then be topped with banana slices if you want to garnish the top.
You could also add a few maraschino cherries on the top to give you added color.
Enjoy!
Notes:
Classic Comfort Dessert: This recipe captures the essence of a classic Southern dessert, offering a rich and creamy homemade banana pudding that’s sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort.
From-Scratch Pudding: Making the pudding from scratch ensures a velvety texture and authentic flavor. Slowly cooking the mixture of flour, sugar, milk, and egg yolks creates a custard-like consistency that forms the base of the pudding.
Layering Technique: Layering the Nilla Wafer cookies, sliced bananas, and homemade pudding creates a delightful texture and flavor contrast in every bite. The cookies soften slightly, while the bananas add natural sweetness and freshness to the dessert.
Customization Options: Whether you prefer a traditional meringue topping or a modern whipped topping, this recipe offers flexibility to suit your taste preferences. You can also add banana slices or maraschino cherries for a decorative touch.
Meringue Topping: If opting for a meringue topping, beating egg whites to stiff peaks and lightly browning them in the oven adds a fluffy and slightly crispy layer to the pudding, enhancing its visual appeal and taste.
Whipped Topping Alternative: Alternatively, you can use whipped topping for convenience and a lighter texture. Simply spread it evenly over the pudding layer before garnishing with additional banana slices or cherries.
Garnishing Options: Get creative with garnishes to elevate the presentation of your banana pudding. Fresh banana slices, maraschino cherries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon can add visual interest and complement the flavors.
Make-Ahead Dessert: This dessert can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve, making it an excellent option for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
Serving and Enjoyment: Serve this homemade banana pudding chilled for the best flavor and texture experience. Each spoonful offers a delightful combination of creamy pudding, soft bananas, and sweet cookies—a true treat for banana dessert enthusiasts.
Nutrition Information:
SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving:
CALORIES: 233 | TOTAL FAT: 8g | CHOLESTEROL: 233mg | CARBOHYDRATES: 35g | SUGAR: 31g | PROTEIN: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use instant pudding mix instead of making the pudding from scratch?
Yes, you can use instant pudding mix as a time-saving alternative.
However, making the pudding from scratch provides a richer flavor and texture.
How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?
The bananas should be ripe but not overly soft.
Look for bananas with yellow skins and a few brown spots, indicating optimal sweetness and flavor.
Can I substitute vanilla extract for vanilla flavoring?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract for vanilla flavoring.
Use the same amount of vanilla extract as specified in the recipe.
Do I need to use Nilla Wafer Cookies, or can I use another type of cookie?
While Nilla Wafer Cookies are traditional for banana pudding, you can use other types of cookies if desired.
Shortbread cookies or graham crackers can also work well in this recipe.
How long does it take for the pudding to thicken on the stovetop?
Cooking the pudding mixture over low heat for approximately 15 minutes allows it to thicken gradually.
Be sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Can I make the pudding ahead of time and assemble the dessert later?
Yes, you can make the pudding ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to assemble the dessert.
This can help save time, especially if you’re preparing for a gathering or special occasion.
What’s the purpose of separating the egg yolks and whites?
Separating the egg yolks and whites allows for different uses in the recipe.
The egg yolks are incorporated into the pudding mixture to add richness and texture, while the egg whites are used for making meringue if desired.
How should I store leftover banana pudding?
Store leftover banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Enjoy within a few days for the best taste and texture.
Can I omit the meringue or whipped topping?
Yes, you can omit the meringue or whipped topping if you prefer a simpler presentation.
The pudding is delicious on its own or with just a dollop of whipped cream.
What’s the best way to serve homemade banana pudding?
Homemade banana pudding can be served chilled or at room temperature.
It’s best enjoyed fresh, either as a standalone dessert or as part of a larger meal.
Garnish with additional banana slices or cherries for added visual appeal.