Banana pudding is the quintessential Southern dessert: creamy, nostalgic, and brimming with homey charm. Whether you’re serving it at a family reunion, a backyard barbecue, or simply craving a sweet treat, this classic recipe never disappoints.
In this listicle, we’ll guide you step by step to create the most authentic, melt-in-your-mouth banana pudding. From selecting the ripest bananas to layering with silky custard and crisp wafers, you’ll learn all the secrets to achieving Southern comfort in a bowl.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
What You’ll Need
– 4–5 ripe bananas (but not mushy)
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 large egg yolks
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 box (about 11 ounces) vanilla wafers
Pro Tip
Choose bananas with a few brown speckles—they’re sweeter and more aromatic, but still firm enough to slice neatly.
2. Make the Creamy Vanilla Custard
Step-by-Step
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and just starts to bubble.
4. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly drizzle a ladle of hot custard into yolks to temper, then return the yolk mixture to the saucepan.
5. Cook for another minute, stirring, until silky and thick.
6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Tips for Success
– Keep whisking to prevent lumps.
– Don’t let the custard boil vigorously—it can curdle.
3. Slice and Prepare the Bananas
Technique
– Peel and slice bananas into 1/4-inch rounds.
– Lay them flat on a plate and cover with plastic wrap until ready to assemble—this stops browning.
Flavor Boost
Sprinkle a light dusting of lemon juice on the slices if you plan to let them sit; the tartness also balances the sweetness.
4. Layer with Love
Assembly
1. In a deep dish or trifle bowl, spread a thin layer of custard.
2. Add a single layer of vanilla wafers, breaking them if necessary to fit.
3. Top wafers with a layer of banana slices.
4. Spoon a generous layer of custard over bananas.
5. Repeat layers, ending with custard on top.
Visual Appeal
Ensure each layer is even so you get perfect bites of banana, custard, and wafer.
5. Chill Until Perfectly Set
Timing
– Cover the pudding with plastic wrap (touching the surface to prevent skin).
– Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
Why It Matters
Chilling allows the wafers to soften just enough to meld with the custard, creating that classic, spoonable texture.
6. Add the Final Whipped Cream Topping
Homemade Whipped Cream
– 1 cup cold heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form. Dollop or pipe over the chilled pudding.
Shortcut
Use stabilized whipped cream if you need the topping to hold shape for longer.
7. Garnish and Serve
Decorating Ideas
– Crumble a few extra vanilla wafers on top.
– Lay a couple of banana slices in a circular pattern.
– Dust lightly with cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Serving Tip
Serve with a wide, shallow spoon to scoop up all the layers in one bite.
With these simple yet essential steps, you’ll master the art of Southern banana pudding and deliver a dessert that’s creamy, dreamy, and irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-time pudding maker, this recipe brings classic comfort to every gathering. Enjoy each spoonful of sweet nostalgia!