Description
This Old Fashioned Banana Pudding is a classic Southern dessert featuring layers of sliced bananas, vanilla wafers, and a creamy homemade custard topped with a fluffy meringue. The pudding is cooked on the stovetop for a smooth, thick texture, then baked to brown the sweet meringue topping. Perfectly sweet with a nostalgic flavor, it serves as a comforting treat for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Banana Pudding Base
- 4 bananas, peeled and sliced
- About 50 vanilla wafers (reserve 10 for lining the dish)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup regular or 2% milk
- 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring
Meringue Topping
- 4 egg whites
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring
Instructions
- Prepare Bananas and Layer Dish: Slice the 4 bananas and sprinkle with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a 2-quart casserole dish, layer vanilla wafers and sliced bananas, using about 10 vanilla wafers to line the sides for decoration.
- Make the Custard: In a saucepan over medium heat on the stovetop, whisk together 3/4 cup sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup flour, 4 egg yolks, 1 cup regular milk, and 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk. Stir continuously for about 7 to 8 minutes until the mixture thickens, being careful to avoid burning. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring.
- Assemble the Pudding: Pour the hot custard over the layered bananas and wafers in the casserole dish, ensuring the custard covers the layers evenly.
- Prepare the Meringue: Beat the 4 egg whites at high speed until stiff peaks form. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring while continuing to beat until fully incorporated and glossy.
- Top and Bake: Spread the meringue evenly over the pudding, sealing the edges to the sides of the dish to prevent shrinking. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until the meringue is golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, place under the broiler briefly to brown the meringue, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving to let the custard set. Serve warm or chilled according to preference.
Notes
- Sprinkling banana slices with lemon juice prevents discoloration.
- Stir the custard continuously while cooking to avoid burning or lumps.
- Be careful when browning the meringue under the broiler as it can brown quickly.
- Use 2% milk or regular milk based on your preference; evaporated milk is essential for creaminess.
- Leftover pudding should be refrigerated and consumed within 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American