If you have a sweet tooth and a love for crispy, creamy textures all rolled into one, then you’re absolutely going to adore this Fried Banana Pudding Recipe. It takes the beloved classic Southern dessert and gives it a playful twist by frying little balls of banana pudding coated in a crunchy, golden crust. Each bite is a delightful surprise—a warm, custardy center bursting with banana flavor wrapped in a crispy, sweet exterior. It’s perfect for impressing friends, indulging in a comforting treat, or anytime you want to feel a little fancy with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds six golden brown fried dough balls, each topped with small white crunch pieces. One dough ball in the front is broken open to show a whole banana slice inside. Caramel sauce is drizzled over the dough balls and pools on the plate below. On top of one dough ball are two banana slices and a small green mint leaf. A few banana slices and crumbs are scattered around the plate. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Though this Fried Banana Pudding Recipe might sound fancy, its ingredient list is refreshingly simple. Each element plays a crucial role, from bringing sweetness and creaminess to creating that irresistible crispy coating.

Ripe bananas: The star of the show, mashed bananas provide natural sweetness and rich flavor.
Milk: The base for the pudding, giving it a smooth, creamy texture.
Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the banana.
Cornstarch: Thickens the pudding, ensuring it sets perfectly for frying.
Egg yolks: Enrich the custard for a silky finish.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the taste.
Crushed vanilla wafers: Mixed with breadcrumbs, these add a nostalgic crunch and subtle vanilla essence to the coating.
Flour: Helps the egg adhere to the pudding balls during the coating process.
Beaten eggs: Acts as the glue that binds the coating layers.
Breadcrumbs: Provide the crunchy golden crust, essential for that perfect fry.
Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for safe and even frying.

How to Make Fried Banana Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Make the Banana Pudding

Begin by gathering your ingredients and mixing milk, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and salt in a saucepan. Stir this mixture gently over low heat, letting it thicken slowly into a luscious custard. Once thickened, stir in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract until everything is silky and smooth. At this stage, your pudding is already bursting with flavor and richness—it’s truly the heart of the Fried Banana Pudding Recipe.

Step 2: Chill the Pudding

After making the pudding, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then, pop it into the fridge for about an hour. This chilling step is crucial because it firms up the pudding, making it easier to handle and shaping it firmly so it won’t fall apart when fried.

Step 3: Shape the Pudding

Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the pudding and shape them into balls or flat patties—whichever you prefer. This is where you can get creative with size or shape for serving. Place the shaped pudding onto a tray and freeze for 30 minutes to make them even firmer and ready for the coating process.

Step 4: Prepare the Coating

Set up a classic dredging station using three separate bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with a mix of breadcrumbs and crushed vanilla wafers. Roll each frozen pudding ball first in flour, then dip it fully in the egg wash, and finally coat it generously in the crunchy crumbs. This triple coating guarantees the Golden crust that makes this Fried Banana Pudding Recipe so special.

Step 5: Heat the Oil and Fry

Pour enough oil into a frying pan to submerge your pudding balls halfway, and warm it on medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle but not smoking—around 350°F (175°C) if you’re using a thermometer. Fry the pudding balls for 2-3 minutes on each side or until beautifully golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels and get ready to indulge!

How to Serve Fried Banana Pudding Recipe

A stack of five golden brown fried balls is placed on a white plate with a white marbled texture surface. The balls have a rough crispy texture, with two balls broken open showing a soft, creamy inside filled with sliced bananas. One broken ball in front has honey dripping down its sides. On top of the stack, there is a thin banana slice and a small green mint leaf. The balls are lightly dusted with powdered sugar and sprinkled with small crushed nut pieces. Around the plate, there are a few banana slices and honey drizzled over the balls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a little flair on top takes this Fried Banana Pudding Recipe over the edge. Try a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a snow-kissed look, or drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent touch. Fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream also add brightness and richness to each bite.

Side Dishes

While this dish shines on its own, pairing it with something light like fresh fruit salad or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm creaminess perfectly. A cup of strong coffee or a fruity iced tea balances the sweetness wonderfully, making the whole experience a moment worth savoring.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching dessert, serve your fried pudding balls skewered on decorative sticks or arranged artistically on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces. You might also build mini dessert towers by stacking the pudding balls with layers of fresh berries and cream—a surefire conversation starter at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Fried Banana Pudding Recipe treats (lucky you!), place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The crust may soften a bit, but reheating them properly can help restore some of that crispiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the shaped, coated pudding balls before frying to save time later. Lay them in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen, just adding a bit more cooking time.

Reheating

To bring back that delicious crispy crust and warm custard filling, reheat your fried pudding in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method revives the crunch without making the inside rubbery or dry—far better than a microwave!

FAQs

Can I use unripe bananas in this Fried Banana Pudding Recipe?

It’s best to use ripe bananas as they are sweeter and mash easily, which enhances the pudding’s natural flavor and texture. Unripe bananas might result in a less sweet, firmer pudding that’s not as enjoyable.

What kind of oil is best for frying the pudding balls?

Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. This helps you fry without burning the coating and hides any overwhelming flavors from the oil.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives and make sure your vanilla wafers are gluten-free too. The pudding will taste just as amazing but be safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread or batter into it; if it sizzles and rises to the top quickly without burning, it’s ready. Using a thermometer set to 350°F (175°C) gives you the most precise control.

Can I prepare the pudding mixture in advance?

Yes! The banana pudding base can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. This actually helps as the pudding firms up more, making shaping and frying easier when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Fried Banana Pudding Recipe enough if you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and excitingly crispy. Its perfect balance of creamy banana goodness and a crunchy coating means you’re in for a treat that’s fun to make and impossible to resist. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection!