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Nilla Wafer Banana Pudding with Meringue Topping Recipe

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4.3 from 48 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This classic Nilla Wafer Banana Pudding combines creamy homemade custard with layers of ripe banana slices and crunchy Nilla Wafers, topped with a light and fluffy meringue that is baked to a golden perfection. The dessert is chilled before serving, making it a delightful treat that balances textures and flavors beautifully, perfect for gatherings or a comforting family dessert.

Ingredients

Custard

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar, separated (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup)
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • 4 eggs, separated
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Layers

  • 35-45 Nilla Wafers or shortbread cookies
  • 5-6 ripe medium bananas, sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare double boiler: Simmer one to two inches of water in a pot over low heat and place a glass or metal bowl on top, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water to create a gentle heat source.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: Add 1/2 cup of sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt to the bowl.
  3. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the egg yolks and milk, stirring until the mixture is well combined.
  4. Cook custard: Cook the mixture over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning and to thicken the custard.
  5. Finish custard: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse flavor.
  6. Layer base custard: Spread a small amount of custard at the bottom of a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
  7. Layer wafers and bananas: Arrange Nilla Wafers over the custard, then add a layer of sliced bananas on top.
  8. Add custard layers: Pour about one third of the custard over the bananas. Repeat layering two more times, finishing with a custard layer on top.
  9. Preheat oven: Heat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the meringue topping.
  10. Make meringue: Beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until foamy. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating for 4-5 minutes until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  11. Top pudding with meringue: Spoon the meringue evenly over the pudding, ensuring the entire surface is covered to seal in the layers.
  12. Bake meringue: Bake the pudding in the preheated oven for 5 minutes or until the meringue turns light golden brown and slightly crisp.
  13. Cool and chill: Allow the pudding to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for a cold, set dessert.
  14. Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish with banana slices and arrange additional Nilla Wafers around the dish’s edge for an attractive presentation.

Notes

  • Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
  • If meringue falls while baking, ensure egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks and sugar is fully dissolved.
  • For a creamier custard, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
  • The dessert keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days but is best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://quickandsweetrecipes.com/nilla-wafer-banana-pudding-with-meringue-topping-recipe/