What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade banana pudding is a classic treat that’s both creamy and comforting, perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with simple ingredients you probably already have. The layers of soft vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and velvety custard create a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, you can customize it to your liking, adding extras like whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a personal touch.
Recipe
Banana pudding is a classic Southern dessert that combines creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers for a comforting and delicious treat. This homemade version is simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ cups cold water
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafers
- 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water until well combined.
- Add the instant pudding mix and whisk for 2 minutes until thickened. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully incorporated.
- In a serving dish, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding mixture. Repeat layers, ending with pudding on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes:
- For best results, assemble the pudding just before serving to prevent the bananas from browning.
- You can add a meringue topping if desired by whipping egg whites and sugar until stiff, then browning lightly in the oven.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Electric mixer (for whipping cream)
- Serving dish (trifle bowl or 9×13-inch dish)
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 0 minutes
- Chilling time: 4 hours
Cuisine: Southern
Serving: 8-10 servings
Nutrition
Banana pudding is a delicious dessert that combines sweet flavors with a creamy texture. Here is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 42g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 30g |
| Protein | 4g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade banana pudding with classic combos like vanilla wafers or whipped cream, but sometimes I like to mix it up with unexpected flavors, such as a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. Adding fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream can also make this dessert feel extra special. It’s fun to get creative and see what tasty combinations you can come up with!
Classic Pairing Ideas
A few classic pairings can make your homemade banana pudding even more delicious. I love serving it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for extra crunch. A dollop of whipped cream on top never hurts, either. Sometimes, I’ll pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add a few slices of fresh banana or a handful of toasted pecans for a nutty twist. These simple additions enhance the flavors, making every bite feel like a comforting treat.
Unexpected Flavor Combos
Even though banana pudding is already a crowd-pleaser, you’d be surprised how a few unexpected pairings can take it to the next level. Try topping it with crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet crunch, or drizzle it with caramel for extra richness. A sprinkle of chili powder adds a spicy kick that balances the sweetness, while toasted coconut flakes bring a tropical twist. I once served it with a scoop of coffee ice cream, and the combo was a hit! Don’t be afraid to experiment—sometimes the weirdest ideas turn out to be the tastiest. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
