Making banana pudding from scratch is one of my favorite things to do! It’s super easy and so much better than store-bought. I start by whisking together sugar, flour, and salt, then slowly add milk until it bubbles. After thickening, I mix in egg yolks, butter, and a splash of vanilla. Now comes the fun part: layering vanilla wafers, banana slices, and that creamy pudding in a lovely dish. Once it’s chilled for a few hours, you’ll have a delightful treat to impress your friends! Stick around, and I’ll share some fun ways to serve it up!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
One of the best things about this banana pudding recipe is how easy it’s to make from scratch.
You’ve got the freedom to create something delicious, and it just feels rewarding.
The combination of creamy layers and sweet flavors guarantees that every bite is a treat, and you can even enjoy organizing your dessert in individual cups for a fun presentation.
Here’s what you’ll love:
- Amazing texture contrasts.
- Irresistible flavor layers.
- Simple ingredients you probably have.
- Flexibility to customize it your way with various flavors.
You’re gonna love this delightful treat!
Banana Pudding From Scratch
Course: DessertsCuisine: American8
servings20
minutes20
minutes300
kcalIndulge in the delightful taste of homemade Banana Pudding from Scratch, a classic dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia to any gathering.
Ingredients
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 3/4 cups whole milk
3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers
Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually stir in the milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture bubbles and thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and gradually whisk in the beaten egg yolks, returning to low heat for another 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in butter and vanilla until well combined. Remove from heat.
- In a trifle dish or a large bowl, layer half of the vanilla wafers, followed by half of the banana slices, and half of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers.
- Top with whipped cream if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can drizzle some caramel sauce over the layers.
- To prevent browning, toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering.
Equipment
Gathering the right equipment is essential for making your Banana Pudding from Scratch a success.
You’ll want to be ready for some delicious fun! Here’s what you need:
- Mixing bowls – You can never have too many!
- Whisk – For smooth and creamy results.
- Heat source – A stovetop works wonders.
- Measuring cups – Precision is key!
Get excited to create!
What to Serve With This Recipe
Now that you’ve whipped up that delicious banana pudding from scratch, let’s talk about what to serve with it!
I love pairing this sweet treat with a tall glass of iced tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream if I’m feeling indulgent.
For an added touch, consider serving it alongside a invigorating seasonal dish like the Strawberry Pretzel Salad to enhance the flavor variety.
And don’t forget, you can get creative with your serving style—whether it’s in cute individual cups or a big family-style bowl, the presentation makes it even more fun!
Perfect Pairing Suggestions
While enjoying a delightful bowl of banana pudding, you might wonder what complements this classic dessert.
I love to add banana variations, like sliced strawberries or crushed pineapple, for a fruity twist. Topping ideas, such as whipped cream or crushed cookies, make it even better.
These simple additions really elevate the pudding, creating a fun dessert experience that everyone will love!
Ideal Beverage Choices
After enjoying the fruity enhancements and delightful toppings on my banana pudding, I often think about the perfect drink to accompany it.
A revitalizing banana smoothie is one of my favorites, blending creamy banana goodness with chilled, frosty delight.
Alternatively, a glass of iced tea adds a nice contrast, balancing sweetness perfectly.
Either choice can make your dessert experience even more fabulous!
Serving Style Variations
Banana pudding is versatile, and there are plenty of creative ways to serve it that can enhance your dessert experience.
I love using individual servings, like mason jars or cute cups, for an eye-catching treat.
You can also go for a layered presentation in a big dish—it’s fun to see the colors and textures!
Either way, everyone’s going to adore it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Almond Milk Instead of Regular Milk?
Sure, I’ve used nut milk like almond milk before, and it worked well. Just keep in mind that the pudding texture might change slightly, but it still tastes delicious. Enjoy your freedom to experiment!
How Long Does Homemade Banana Pudding Last in the Fridge?
Homemade desserts usually last about three to four days in the fridge. I check freshness indicators like texture and smell. For best results, I follow storage tips to keep things fresh and delicious. Enjoy your treats!
Can I Freeze Banana Pudding for Later Use?
I’ve found that you can definitely freeze banana pudding for later use! Just use proper freezing techniques to help maintain its texture preservation. It’s a delicious way to enjoy dessert whenever you want!
What Type of Bananas Are Best for Banana Pudding?
When I pick bananas for pudding, I always choose ripe bananas. Varieties like Cavendish work best because they’re sweet and creamy. Their texture really enhances the dish, giving it that delightful, indulgent feel we all love.
Is It Possible to Make Banana Pudding Gluten-Free?
I’ve found that making banana pudding gluten-free is totally doable! By using gluten-free alternatives like cornstarch or arrowroot as thickening agents, I can create a creamy dessert everyone can enjoy. Doesn’t that sound liberating?
