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Classic Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe Easy 5-Step Vanilla Wafer Dessert

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A nostalgic and easy-to-make banana pudding featuring creamy homemade vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. Perfect for any occasion and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 2% or almond milk for lighter option)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or almond/oat flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten (room temperature)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 box classic vanilla wafers (Nilla Wafers preferred)
  • Optional: whipped cream or meringue for topping

Instructions

  1. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
  2. Add milk and cook: Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until mixture thickens and bubbles gently, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Temper the egg yolks: Beat egg yolks in a separate bowl. Gradually whisk about 1/2 cup of hot pudding into yolks to warm them. Slowly pour yolk mixture back into saucepan, whisking constantly. Cook for another 2 minutes until thickened.
  4. Finish the pudding: Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly.
  5. Layer the pudding: In a baking dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding. Repeat layers finishing with pudding on top. Cover and chill at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Whisk constantly to avoid lumps. Temper eggs carefully to prevent curdling. Slice bananas just before assembling or toss with lemon juice to prevent browning. Chill pudding at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture. Optional toppings include whipped cream or meringue. For gluten-free, substitute flour and wafers accordingly. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana pudding, homemade dessert, vanilla wafers, easy banana pudding, classic banana pudding, creamy pudding, layered dessert

Find it online: https://shimmersnack.com/classic-homemade-banana-pudding-recipe-easy-5-step-vanilla-wafer-dessert/