nilla banana pudding recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best nilla banana pudding recipe

I’ve been making this Nilla banana pudding recipe for years, and it’s still a family favorite. The combination of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy Nilla wafers is a match made in heaven.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites to assist with. We make it for special occasions like holidays and birthdays, but also for everyday treats.

I love that it’s a relatively healthy dessert option, with the bananas providing natural sweetness and the Nilla wafers adding a nice crunch without being too sweet. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

I’ve tried various variations over the years, but this classic recipe remains our go-to. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the vanilla extract and real bananas.

Don’t be tempted to use artificial sweeteners or low-fat milk – they’ll compromise the flavor and texture of the pudding. I also like to use a mixture of heavy cream and whole milk for added richness without overloading on calories.

Nilla Banana Pudding

4.5 from 644 votes

A creamy and comforting dessert featuring layers of vanilla wafers, bananas, and pudding, topped with whipped cream. This classic Southern dish is perfect for any occasion, especially when you want a taste of nostalgia.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pudding

1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt
2 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Banana Layer

3 ripe bananas
1/2 cup sliced bananas

For the Topping

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup vanilla wafer crumbs
1 cup vanilla wafers

For the Assembly

1 cup vanilla wafers

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat.
2Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.
3In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks.
4Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.
5Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the pudding thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6Stir in the vanilla extract.
7Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
8Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
9Place in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes.
10While the pudding is chilling, slice the bananas into a bowl.
11Sprinkle the sliced bananas with lemon juice to prevent browning.
12In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
13To assemble the pudding, spread a thin layer of chilled pudding on the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish.
14Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers on top of the pudding, followed by a layer of sliced bananas.
15Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
16Sprinkle the remaining vanilla wafer crumbs on top of the pudding.
17Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the pudding.
18Sprinkle the remaining vanilla wafers on top of the whipped cream.
19Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowl
Hand mixer
8×8-inch baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute almond extract for a different flavor profile. For a healthier option, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream.

This Nilla banana pudding recipe is always a hit at family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy Nilla wafers is hard to resist.

To store leftover pudding, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months – simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Nilla Banana Pudding

1.

Q: What’s the best type of vanilla extract to use in this recipe?

A: For an authentic flavor, I recommend using a high-quality vanilla extract like Nielsen-Massey or Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla Extract.

2.

Q: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

No, using low-fat milk will result in a less rich and creamy pudding. Stick with whole milk for the best flavor and texture.

3.

Q: How long does this pudding take to set in the fridge?

It typically takes about 3-4 hours for the pudding to set in the fridge, depending on your refrigerator temperature.

4.

Q: Can I make this recipe without Nilla wafers?

Sure! You can substitute crushed cookies or wafers from other brands if you prefer or have dietary restrictions.

5.

Q: Is it safe to eat raw eggs in this recipe?

No, it’s not recommended to consume raw eggs due to the risk of Salmonella contamination. If you’re concerned about raw eggs, consider using pasteurized eggs or an egg substitute like flaxseed meal mixed with water.

Similar Posts