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Homemade Southern Banana Pudding

A creamy and delightful Southern dessert with layers of pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers that is perfect for family gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pudding
  • 4 cups whole milk The secret to a creamy and rich pudding.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar Use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
  • 4 large egg yolks Use fresh egg yolks for the best texture.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch Used for thickening the pudding.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness to the pudding.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract For flavor enhancement.
For the layers
  • 4 medium ripe bananas Cut into coins; optional to brush with lemon juice.
  • 1 box vanilla wafers Nilla or shortbread wafers work best.
  • 1 cup whipped cream or meringue To top the pudding for a light finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until thickened, about 10 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in about 1 cup of hot pudding mixture to temper the eggs, then return the mixture to the saucepan.
  3. Stir constantly over medium heat until silky, about another 3-5 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat, and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
Assembling
  1. Peel and slice the bananas into coins.
  2. In your baking dish, create layers with vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and warm pudding. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
  3. Spread whipped cream or meringue over the top.
Chilling
  1. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

For best results, do not rush the cooking process, and make sure to use fresh ingredients. This dessert is best served cold after it has properly set.