How to Make Classic Southern Banana Pudding in 5 Easy Steps
Oh, the sweet, creamy delight of Classic Southern Banana Pudding! If you’re like me, you have fond memories of this dessert from family gatherings and potlucks. It’s a staple in Southern kitchens, and today, I’m excited to share my easy recipe with you. This dessert is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for quick family dinners or even as a sweet treat after a busy week. So, let’s dive into this delicious world of Southern style desserts!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a classic Southern dessert that brings nostalgia and joy.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to prepare.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to fancy gatherings.
- Can be made ahead of time, saving you stress on the day of your event.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
To make this Classic Southern Banana Pudding, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas
- 1 box of vanilla wafers
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 4 cups of milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious dessert! Follow these simple steps:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles. This should take about 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a bit of the hot mixture to the yolks to temper them, then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the pudding cool slightly.
- In a large serving dish, layer the vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your banana pudding turns out perfectly:
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- For a twist, try adding a layer of chocolate pudding or using different banana pudding recipes to mix things up!
- Don’t skip the chilling time; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- If you want to impress your guests, top with homemade whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers.
How to Serve
When it comes to serving this Classic Southern Banana Pudding, presentation is key! Here are some ideas:
- Serve in individual cups for a charming touch at dinner parties.
- Garnish with fresh banana slices and a dollop of whipped cream for a beautiful finish.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- For a fun twist, serve it alongside some Easy Banana Bread or Moist Banana Bread for a banana-themed dessert table!
Make Ahead and Storage
This banana pudding is perfect for making ahead of time! Here are some storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To prevent browning, cover the top layer with plastic wrap directly on the pudding.
- If you want to make it gluten-free, consider using gluten-free vanilla wafers or try my Healthy 3-Ingredient Banana Bread Gluten-Free recipe as a side!
So there you have it! A delightful, creamy dessert that’s sure to bring smiles to your family’s faces. Whether you’re enjoying it as a sweet dinner treat or serving it at a gathering, this Classic Southern Banana Pudding is a recipe you’ll want to keep close. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family!
Classic Southern Banana Pudding
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and flour over medium heat until thickened.
- Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks and vanilla extract; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Layer sliced bananas and cookies in a serving dish, then pour pudding over the layers.
- Repeat layers and finish with a layer of cookies on top.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form and spread over the pudding.
