Banana pudding is a classic Southern dessert that layers vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and creamy custard or pudding. You begin by making a rich vanilla custard from scratch or using instant vanilla pudding for convenience. The layers start with a base of vanilla wafers, followed by slices of fresh bananas, and then topped with a generous amount of custard. This process is repeated until the dish is filled, and it’s usually finished with a fluffy meringue or whipped cream. The dessert is then chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together and the wafers to soften, creating a delightful, comforting treat.
The history of banana pudding dates back to the late 19th century, coinciding with the availability of bananas in the United States. Early recipes appeared in Southern cookbooks, where the dessert quickly gained popularity due to its simple ingredients and delicious taste. By the 1920s, banana pudding had become a staple at Southern gatherings and potlucks. The invention of instant pudding mix in the mid-20th century made the dessert even more accessible and popular nationwide. Today, banana pudding remains a beloved dessert, celebrated for its creamy texture, sweet banana flavor, and nostalgic appeal.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Total Time:** 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
**Servings:** 8
**Yield:** 8 servings
#### Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups whole milk
– 4 large egg yolks, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 box vanilla wafers (about 12 ounces)
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– Whipped cream or meringue for topping
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare Custard:** In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to boil. Continue cooking for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
2. **Temper Eggs:** Gradually whisk about 1 cup of the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks, then return the egg mixture to the saucepan. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. **Layer Ingredients:** In a 2-quart dish, layer one-third of the vanilla wafers, followed by one-third of the banana slices. Pour one-third of the custard over the bananas. Repeat layers two more times, ending with custard.
4. **Chill:** Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
5. **Serve:** Before serving, top with whipped cream or meringue. Serve chilled.
Enjoy this classic banana pudding, a delightful and nostalgic dessert perfect for any occasion.
