BANANA PUDDING FROM SCRATCH

This Southern Banana Pudding is an heirloom family recipe and a classic Southern dessert. The airy meringue atop creamy pudding is a delicious favorite and makes the best banana pudding!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana pudding recipe is as much a comfort food in the South as it is a dessert. It’s something everyone always looks forward to—digging in to get the perfect ratio of vanilla wafers, pudding, and bananas. The combination of textures and flavors makes it truly irresistible.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Casserole dish
• Electric mixer
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups milk
• 4 separated eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla flavor
• 1 box of Nilla Vanilla Wafers
• 4 medium ripe bananas

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a saucepan, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly over low heat until thickened, about 15 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and slowly stir them into the mixture while continuing to stir constantly.
3. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla flavor.
4. Line the bottom of a casserole dish with vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas and a layer of the custard mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with custard on top.
5. Beat the egg whites until stiff. Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar and whip until peaks form.
6. Spread the meringue on top of the custard and bake in a preheated oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes, or until the meringue is browned.
7. Remove from oven and serve.

Tips for Success

• Stir the custard constantly to prevent it from sticking or burning.
• Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature before beating them for the meringue.
• Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a twist, try adding a layer of chocolate chips between the pudding layers. You can also top the meringue with a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dessert provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures, with a good source of calcium from the milk and protein from the eggs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use pre-made pudding? While you can use pre-made pudding for convenience, making it from scratch gives the best flavor and texture.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pudding in advance, but add the meringue topping just before serving to keep it fresh.

Conclusion

Now that you have the secrets to this delightful Southern Banana Pudding from scratch, it’s time to give it a try! I hope you enjoy making and sharing this comforting dessert with your loved ones. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you try. Happy cooking!