The Best banana pudding with vanilla wafers recipe
I’m so excited to share this classic banana pudding with vanilla wafers recipe with you all. This dessert has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
I remember my grandmother making it for me and my siblings when we were kids, and now I love making it for my own family. The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make – it’s perfect for a weeknight dessert or a special occasion.
Plus, the combination of creamy banana pudding and crunchy vanilla wafers is just heavenly. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe can be made in under an hour and serves a large group of people.
The technique behind this recipe is all about creating a smooth and creamy pudding by cooking the bananas with sugar and milk, then chilling it until set. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your household too.
Classic Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
4.7 from 1401 votes
A creamy, layered dessert featuring ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a silky homemade pudding. This Southern classic is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a comforting blend of textures and sweetness.
1In a medium saucepan, whisk together 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/3 cup flour, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
2Gradually whisk in 3 cups whole milk until smooth, then place over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3In a separate bowl, lightly beat 4 large egg yolks.
4Slowly ladle about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to temper them, then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
5Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, for 2 minutes until the pudding is thick and coats the back of a spoon.
6Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter until fully melted and combined.
7Transfer the pudding to a bowl, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
8In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
9Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3 to 4 minutes, being careful not to overbeat.
10To assemble, spread a thin layer of the cooled pudding (about 1/2 cup) on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
11Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers over the pudding, then top with half of the sliced bananas.
12Spread half of the remaining pudding evenly over the bananas, then add another layer of wafers and the remaining bananas.
13Spread the remaining pudding over the top layer of bananas, then gently spread the whipped cream over the pudding, covering it completely.
14Crush a few extra wafers and sprinkle them over the whipped cream for garnish.
15Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the wafers to soften and the flavors to meld.
For best results, use bananas that are ripe but still firm to avoid mushiness. The pudding can be made a day ahead and assembled just before serving.
Watch Video Of How Classic Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers Works
This banana pudding with vanilla wafers recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a random Tuesday night. My kids love helping me make it, and they always ask for seconds (or thirds!)
The best part is how versatile this recipe is – you can serve it as-is or top it with whipped cream or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture. And don’t even get me started on how well it stores – leftovers are always welcome in our household!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
Q1: Can I use fresh bananas instead of ripe ones?
A1: Yes, you can use fresh bananas, but they might not break down as easily when cooked. If using fresh bananas, make sure to cook them until they’re soft and mashed before adding the sugar and milk.
Q2: How long does the pudding need to chill before serving?
A2: You can serve the pudding once it’s chilled for at least 30 minutes, but the longer it chills, the better it will taste. You can even make it the day before and store it in the fridge overnight.
Q3: Can I substitute vanilla wafers with another type of cookie?
A3: While vanilla wafers are traditional in this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cookies like chocolate sandwich cookies or even wafers flavored with other extracts like almond or coconut.
Q4: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A4: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use a plant-based milk alternative instead of regular milk.
Q5: How do I store leftover pudding?
A5: Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure to heat it gently over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
This luscious frosting uses coconut cream and powdered sugar to create a rich, fluffy topping that is completely dairy-free. It is perfect for cakes, cupcakes, …
A creamy and velvety no-bake cherry cheesecake. This dessert is perfect for any occasion and requires no oven time. The combination of a nutty graham cracker cr…
This garlic rosemary roast chicken is a fragrant and savory main dish that pairs juicy, golden-brown chicken with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary and the sha…
Caldo de Res is a hearty Mexican beef and vegetable soup, simmered with marrow bones for a rich, savory broth. This comforting dish features tender chunks of be…
