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Creamy Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers Recipe


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4.1 from 60 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings

Description

This classic Banana Pudding recipe features creamy homemade vanilla pudding layered with ripe banana slices and vanilla wafers for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert. It is easy to prepare on the stovetop and requires chilling to set, resulting in a smooth, luscious pudding perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

For the Pudding

  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups 2% milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For Assembly

  • 8 ounces vanilla wafers (about 60 cookies), divided
  • 4 large ripe bananas, cut into 1/4-inch slices


Instructions

  1. Prep the pudding: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. Slowly whisk in the milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture over medium heat until it becomes thick and bubbly. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional two minutes, stirring frequently. Remove the saucepan from heat.
  2. Temper the eggs: In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. To prevent curdling, gradually drizzle some of the hot pudding mixture into the eggs while whisking vigorously. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, cook and stir for two minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the pudding to cool for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Assemble the dish: In an ungreased 8-inch square baking dish, layer 25 vanilla wafers evenly as the first layer. Add half of the banana slices on top, followed by half of the pudding. Repeat the layers with the remaining wafers, banana slices, and pudding.
  4. Chill the pudding: Cover the pudding surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set and the flavors to meld.
  5. Unwrap and finish: Before serving, remove the plastic wrap carefully. Crush the remaining vanilla wafers and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the chilled pudding for added texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Tempering the eggs is crucial to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth pudding texture.
  • Covering the pudding surface with plastic wrap helps avoid a skin formation during chilling.
  • You can serve this pudding chilled overnight for best flavor and texture.
  • If any lumps form, strain the pudding through a sieve to achieve smoothness.
  • For an extra touch, garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American