Indulge in the timeless taste of Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding, a classic dessert that offers a creamy texture and rich flavors, sure to evoke memories of family gatherings and Sunday dinners. This recipe takes you back to simpler times with its homemade pudding layered with vanilla wafers and fresh bananas, topped with a light, fluffy meringue.
Bringing Back a Classic
This Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding recipe is not just about bringing a dessert to the table—it’s about reviving a beloved tradition with every spoonful. Here’s how to create a perfect pudding that might just become your go-to comfort dessert.
Key Steps for Perfect Banana Pudding
- Smooth Pudding Base: Start with a mixture of flour, sugar, and salt, gradually adding milk to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened for a silky, rich base.
- Temper the Egg Yolks: To avoid scrambled eggs in your pudding, temper the yolks by gradually introducing them to the hot mixture, which ensures they incorporate smoothly.
- Layering: The secret to great banana pudding lies in how you layer it. Start with vanilla wafers, add bananas, and then the pudding. Repeat the layers for a symphony of textures and flavors.
- Meringue Topping: Whip the egg whites into stiff peaks and spread them over the top, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the meringue from shrinking.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake until the meringue is golden brown, then chill to set the pudding and develop the flavors.
Recipe: Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
- Chilling time: Several hours
- Serving: Serves 8-10
- Equipment needed: 9×13 inch baking dish, large saucepan, mixing bowls
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
Directions:
- Prepare the Pudding: In a large saucepan, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and boils. Continue to stir for 2 more minutes.
- Temper Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, slightly beat egg yolks. Temper yolks by adding a small amount of the hot pudding mixture, then gradually return all to the saucepan.
- Cook Pudding: Bring to a gentle boil and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Layer Ingredients: In a 9×13 inch dish, place a layer of vanilla wafers, topped with sliced bananas. Pour half of the pudding over the top. Repeat layers.
- Prepare Meringue: Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Spread over the pudding, sealing the edges of the dish.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Chill and Serve: Let the pudding chill in the refrigerator before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy a Slice of Sweet Tradition
Once chilled, serve this Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding as a delightful finish to any meal. Enjoy the layers of creamy pudding, ripe bananas, and soft wafers topped with a golden meringue that make this dessert a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for any occasion, this banana pudding is a delicious nod to the past, sure to bring smiles and a bit of nostalgia to your table.
