vanilla banana pudding recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best vanilla banana pudding recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite vanilla banana pudding recipe. This classic dessert has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason. The combination of creamy vanilla pudding, sweet ripe bananas, and a hint of spice is a match made in heaven.

It’s a recipe that never fails to impress, whether we’re serving it at a family gathering or just enjoying it as a special treat after dinner. One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. It requires just a few ingredients, none of which are too exotic or hard to find.

And the best part? It’s a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a simple dessert to serve at a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for a special event. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it chilled, topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even as a warm casserole on a cold winter night.

The possibilities are endless! And let’s not forget the health benefits – this pudding is made with wholesome ingredients like fresh bananas and real vanilla extract, making it a much healthier alternative to many store-bought desserts out there. My kids love helping me make this recipe in the kitchen, and they can’t get enough of the end result.

We’ve even started making it for special occasions like birthdays and holidays. It’s truly become a family favorite that never fails to put smiles on everyone’s faces.

Vanilla Banana Pudding

4.7 from 1788 votes

A creamy and comforting classic dessert featuring layers of vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers. Topped with whipped cream for an indulgent finish.

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
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt
2 large egg yolks
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Assembly

3 ripe bananas
1 box vanilla wafers
2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar

For the Topping

1/2 cup whipped cream
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat.
2Stir continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
3In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks.
4Slowly pour 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
5Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
6Cook over medium heat until the pudding thickens and comes to a gentle boil, about 2-3 minutes.
7Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
8Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, ensuring the plastic touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
9Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
10While the pudding is chilling, slice the bananas and arrange a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of serving dishes.
11Top with a layer of sliced bananas, and spoon the chilled pudding over the bananas.
12Repeat layers until the dishes are full, ending with a layer of pudding and a single wafer on top.
13In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
14Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of each pudding.
15Sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired.
16Serve immediately and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowl
Hand mixer
Serving dishes

📊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: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a splash of rum or brandy to the pudding mixture before chilling.

Watch Video Of How Vanilla Banana Pudding Works

One of the best things about this vanilla banana pudding recipe is how easily it can be stored and reheated once it’s made. Simply cover the mixture with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it until serving time – then reheat it gently over low heat until warmed through.

You can also serve it chilled straight from the fridge if you prefer! Another great thing about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can top it with whipped cream, chopped nuts, or even candy pieces for added fun.

My kids love helping me make this recipe in the kitchen because they get to pick out their favorite toppings! And as an added bonus, this pudding makes an excellent breakfast treat when served chilled with some fresh fruit on top – try adding some sliced strawberries or blueberries for added color and nutrition.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Vanilla Banana Pudding

Q1: What type of milk should I use in this recipe?

A1: You can use either whole milk or 2% milk in this recipe, whichever you prefer. The key is to choose a milk that’s rich and creamy so that your pudding turns out smooth and delicious.

Q2: Can I use other types of fruit in place of bananas?

A2: While bananas are the classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits like sliced strawberries or blueberries if you’d like. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sugar you add accordingly.

Q3: How do I know if my pudding is set?

A3: To check if your pudding is set, gently press on the surface of the mixture with your finger or the back of a spoon. If it springs back quickly and doesn’t feel too soft or liquidy, then it’s ready to go.

Q4: Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

A4: Yes, you can definitely make this pudding ahead of time – just be sure to refrigerate it until serving time so that it stays chilled and fresh.

Q5: What kind of flavorings can I add to this recipe?

A5: Some people like to add different flavorings like vanilla extract or cinnamon to their banana pudding for an extra boost of flavor.

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