Easy Banana Pudding Recipe (+VIDEO) | Kitchenstagram

Banana pudding is a beloved Southern dessert with creamy layers of homemade vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, crunchy vanilla wafers and fluffy whipped cream. This easy no-bake recipe is perfect for gatherings and potlucks, offering a rich blend of textures and flavours. It’s simple to prepare ahead- just layer with ingredients, cover and refrigerate until serving. Whether for a family event or a summer barbecue, banana pudding is a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of nostalgia to any occasion. With its delightful mix of creamy, fruity and crunchy elements, this dessert is sure to be a hit.

What is Banana Pudding?

Banana Pudding is a classic Southern dessert made with layers of sweet vanilla custard, sliced bananas, vanilla wafers and whipped cream. Traditionally prepared with homemade custard in the 1920s, modern versions often use a no-cook method for convenience. The pudding is typically topped with whipped cream or meringue for added richness. The combination of creamy custard, soft bananas, and crunchy wafers makes this dish a comforting favourite for many.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

  • You’ll love this recipe because it’s a no bake dessert that’s incredibly convenient.

  • Not only it is quick to make, but it’s also visually stunning, making it a hit at potlucks or parties.

  • It can be made ahead of time.

  • Loved by all ages, this crowd-pleasing classic dessert has been passed won through generations, making it a timeless favourite for any occasion.

Ingredients for Banana Pudding:

Banana Pudding is a comforting dessert made with a few simple ingredients, each playing a key role in creating its signature layers of flavours and texture.

  • Vanilla Wafers: Vanilla wafers are classic, though you can substitute with shortbread, butter cookies or even crackers. Find our Homemade Vanilla Wafers Recipe Here.

  • Milk: Whole milk is recommended for making the vanilla pudding, but any milk will work.

  • Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the vanilla pudding.

  • Egg Yolk: Egg Yolks contribute to the vanilla puddings creamy texture.

  • Sugar: Castor sugar and icing sugar is used for this recipe.

  • Cornstarch/ Corn flour: Cornstarch or Corn flour thickens the pudding to its classic, smooth texture.

  • Butter: Butter gives the pudding extra richness and makes it velvety smooth.

  • Vanilla: It wouldn’t be vanilla pudding without the vanilla.

  • Salt: A little bit of salt helps all of the flavours to pop.

  • Banana: Fresh banana slices give the recipe its iconic taste. Use ripe but firm bananas for the best results.

  • Whipped Cream: Whipped cream provides a light, airy topping, or substitute with cool whip for a sweeter touch.

Can you make Banana Pudding ahead of time?

This easy banana pudding can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Ensure the pudding fully covers the banana slices to prevent browning. The pudding will soften the cookies within two hours, but you can refrigerate the dessert up to 24 hours in advance. For a fresh touch, add new banana slices on top just before serving for the best presentation and flavour.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Banana pudding lasts up to three days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly after preparation. Once served, the bananas may start browning, so it’s best to consume it quickly.

Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture and flavour.

Ingredients

For Vanilla Pudding:

  • 2 cups Whole Milk

  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream

  • 2 nos. Egg Yolk

  • 1/3 cup Castor Sugar

  • 2 tbsp Corn Flour

  • 2 tsp Vanilla Essence

  • 2 tbsp Butter

  • Salt a pinch

For Whipped Cream:

  • 1/2 cup Whipping cream

  • 2 tbsp Icing Sugar

Preparation

For Vanilla Pudding:

  • Step 1: In a saucepan, combine milk and cream over medium heat. Stir to combine, slowly bring to a simmer, do not let the milk boil.
  • Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolk, castor sugar and cornstarch until completely combined.
  • Step 3: Slowly stream the hot milk mixture in the egg mixture little by little to temper the egg mixture and whisk immediately. This will raise the temperature of the egg mixture, without scrambling it. While continuing to whisk pour in the rest of the hot milk into the egg mixture. Slowly add the egg yolk mixture back to the pan, continue to cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly until it thickens. Do not let this mixture boil or it can curdle.
  • Step 4: Remove the pudding from the heat and whisk in the butter, vanilla extract and salt, whisk until well combined. Strain the pudding through a fine sieve. Set aside the pudding to cool completely and thicken before using it.

For Whipped Cream:

  • Step 5: In a mixing bowl, whip cream and sugar on high speed, until medium peaks form.

Assembling the Banana Pudding:

  • Step 6: In a serving glass or dish, start assembling the banana pudding. Cover the bottom of the glass with pudding followed by vanilla wafer chunks, then whipped cream and sliced banana. Continue layering the pudding, wafers, whipped cream and banana slices until you reach the top, ending with a final layer of whipped cream.
  • Step 7: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Garnish with a vanilla wafer and a slice of fresh banana before serving. Enjoy!!

About Me

DEBJANI MONDAL

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Welcome to Kitchenstagram, the home of delicious recipes, culinary inspiration and cooking adventures. I’m Debjani and I’m thrilled to be your guide through the wonderful world of food. I’m a self-taught professional baker, home chef, recipe developer, author of Kitchenstagram and an aspiring YouTuber.

 My passion for food and cooking began at a very young age, when I would watch my mom and dad cook for me and my brother. My dad, in particular is a great cook whose culinary skills made a lasting impression on me. My dad would  cook up a storm on special occasions by cooking variety of dishes, from delicious biriyani to samosa, fish fry, rasgullas and kachoris (sweet & spicy deep fried pastry with filling of lentils, meat or fish…>>>>>

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