Banana Pudding

Here’s a classic, creamy, and indulgent Banana Pudding recipe that’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser 🍌🍮.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

Pudding:

• 3/4 cup sugar

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

• Pinch of salt

• 3 cups whole milk

• 3 large egg yolks (reserve whites if making meringue)

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Layers:

• 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

• 1 box (about 11 oz) vanilla wafers

Optional Topping (Meringue or Whipped Cream):

• 3 egg whites

• 1/4 cup sugar
  or

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream + 2 tbsp sugar, whipped

Instructions

1. Make the Pudding:

   • In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.

   • Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.

   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and begins to bubble.

   • In a small bowl, beat egg yolks. Temper the yolks by slowly adding a small amount of hot milk mixture while whisking. Then, return the yolk mixture to the saucepan and cook 2–3 more minutes, stirring constantly.

   • Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla. Let cool slightly.

2. Layer the Dessert:

   • In a 9×13-inch dish (or individual cups), layer vanilla wafers on the bottom.

   • Add a layer of banana slices, then pour some pudding on top.

   • Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.

3. Add Topping:
   Option A – Meringue:

   • Beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Spread over pudding.

   • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until lightly golden.

   Option B – Whipped Cream:

   • Top with whipped cream just before serving for a fresh, soft topping.

4. Chill and Serve:

   • Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours (or overnight) so flavors meld and wafers soften slightly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg between layers.

• Use chocolate or butterscotch pudding for a twist.

• For a lighter version, substitute half the milk with half-and-half or use a lower-fat milk.

If you want, I can also give you a no-bake, super easy version that takes 10 minutes to assemble and tastes just like classic banana pudding.