Easy Banana Pudding Recipe

• Table of Contents

  • Easy Banana Pudding Recipe
  • Time
  • Ingredients
  • Step-by-Step Instructions
  • Cooking Tips
  • Variations
  • Nutrition per Serving
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Conclusion

Easy Banana Pudding Recipe

Banana pudding is a classic dessert that has been a beloved staple in American households for generations. Its creamy texture, sweet banana flavor, and delightful crunch from the vanilla wafers make it a comforting treat that evokes nostalgia for many. The origins of banana pudding can be traced back to the late 19th century, with its popularity skyrocketing in the Southern United States. Traditionally, it was made with homemade custard, but over the years, simpler versions have emerged, making it accessible to everyone. This easy banana pudding recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy this delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

Time

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

To make this easy banana pudding, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of whole milk
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup of cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
• 1 box (11 oz) of vanilla wafers

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. You can also opt for organic ingredients if you prefer a healthier option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your easy banana pudding:

1. Prepare the Pudding Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk the mixture until smooth and there are no lumps.
2. Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continuously stir the mixture with a whisk until it begins to thicken and bubble, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Vanilla: Once the pudding has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
4. Layer the Pudding: In a large serving dish or individual cups, start layering the dessert. Begin with a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, and then a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
5. Make the Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form. This should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
6. Top the Pudding: Spread the whipped cream over the top layer of pudding. You can also add additional banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers for decoration.
7. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly.

Cooking Tips

Here are some expert tips to ensure your banana pudding turns out perfectly:

• Prevent Browning: To keep the banana slices from browning, you can toss them in a little lemon juice before layering them in the pudding.
• Use Cold Ingredients: Make sure your heavy cream is cold before whipping it. This helps achieve better volume and texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the pudding mixture before layering. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, feel free to add more sugar to your taste.
• Storage: Banana pudding is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the bananas may become mushy over time.

Variations

Feel free to customize your banana pudding with these variations:

• Chocolate Banana Pudding: Add cocoa powder to the pudding mixture for a chocolate twist. You can also layer chocolate wafers instead of vanilla.
• Nutty Banana Pudding: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the layers for added crunch and flavor.
• Vegan Banana Pudding: Substitute dairy milk with almond or coconut milk, and use a plant-based whipped cream alternative.
• Peanut Butter Banana Pudding: Swirl in some creamy peanut butter into the pudding mixture for a deliciously nutty flavor.

Nutrition per Serving

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

• kcal: 320
• fat: 15g
• saturates: 8g
• carbs: 42g
• sugars: 22g
• fibre: 1g
• protein: 4g
• salt: 0.2g

Keep in mind that these values may vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices.

Serving Suggestions

Banana pudding is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways:

• Presentation: Serve in individual cups for a more elegant presentation, or in a large trifle dish for a family-style serving.
• Garnish: Top with additional whipped cream, banana slices, or crushed vanilla wafers for added texture and visual appeal.
• Pairing: This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more festive touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Occasions: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, banana pudding is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion

This easy banana pudding recipe is not only simple to make but also delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. With its rich history and comforting taste, banana pudding is a dessert that brings people together. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade banana pudding that will have everyone asking for seconds!