Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe

Nothing says comfort quite like a bowl of Homemade Banana Pudding. This Southern classic combines layers of creamy vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and crisp vanilla wafers, all topped with fluffy whipped cream or meringue. Whether served warm or chilled, this dessert is the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Homemade Banana Pudding

I absolutely love making banana pudding because it’s a nostalgic, feel-good dessert that never goes out of style. The combination of rich homemade pudding, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers brings together a variety of textures and flavors that everyone enjoys. While store-bought pudding mixes are convenient, there’s nothing like the flavor of homemade pudding, made with simple ingredients like milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla.

This recipe is perfect for a family dessert or a potluck, and it can be easily made ahead of time. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also elevate it with toppings like whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or even a sprinkle of crushed cookies. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and classic, banana pudding is the way to go!

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe

• Creamy and Delicious: The homemade vanilla pudding is rich, smooth, and pairs perfectly with the fresh bananas.
• Easy to Make: While it requires a little time on the stovetop, this pudding comes together easily with just a few steps.
• Great for Gatherings: This is a classic crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or special occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can make this pudding ahead of time and refrigerate it, making it even more convenient for entertaining.

Main Ingredients for Homemade Banana Pudding

1. Bananas – Fresh, ripe bananas are key for adding natural sweetness and flavor to this pudding.
2. Milk – Whole milk provides the rich, creamy base for the pudding.
3. Sugar – Granulated sugar sweetens the pudding without overpowering the other flavors.
4. Eggs – Egg yolks give the pudding a thick, custard-like texture.
5. Cornstarch – Helps thicken the pudding, giving it that perfect, silky consistency.
6. Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the pudding.
7. Vanilla Wafers – These classic cookies add a nice crunch and texture to the dessert.
8. Whipped Cream (or meringue) – For topping the pudding, adding lightness and an extra touch of sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe

Here’s how to make this rich, creamy banana pudding step by step:

1. Prepare the Pudding Base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 cups of whole milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble.
   • Tip: Keep stirring to prevent the pudding from scorching at the bottom of the pan.
2. Temper the Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, whisk 3 large egg yolks. Slowly add about 1/4 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Then, gradually whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
   • Pro Tip: Tempering the eggs ensures they don’t curdle when mixed with the hot pudding.
3. Cook Until Thickened: Continue cooking the pudding over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency. Remove the pudding from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
   • Variation: For extra flavor, add a splash of rum or banana liqueur for a deeper banana taste.
4. Assemble the Pudding: In a serving dish or individual bowls, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom, followed by a layer of sliced bananas. Pour a layer of warm pudding over the bananas. Repeat the layers until all the pudding, bananas, and wafers are used, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
   • Tip: If you prefer a chilled dessert, let the pudding cool slightly before assembling, then refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
5. Top with Whipped Cream: Once the pudding is assembled, spread whipped cream (or meringue) over the top. For extra garnish, you can sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top or add additional banana slices.
   • Serving Idea: Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Make It a Pie: Turn this recipe into a banana pudding pie by pouring the pudding into a graham cracker or cookie crust before chilling.
• Add Some Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts between the layers.
• How to Store: Store leftover banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• How to Serve: Banana pudding is delicious served warm, but it’s just as tasty chilled. It makes a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.

Health Benefits of Homemade Banana Pudding

While banana pudding is an indulgent dessert, bananas themselves offer plenty of nutritional benefits. They’re rich in potassium, which supports heart health, and they provide a good amount of dietary fiber. Eggs also add protein to the pudding, and if you use whole milk, you’ll get a boost of calcium.

• Rich in Potassium: Bananas are a great source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and maintain healthy heart function.
• Source of Calcium: The milk in the pudding provides calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Customizable for Healthier Options: You can reduce the sugar or use low-fat milk for a lighter version of this dessert.