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Old Fashioned Banana Pudding Recipe


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3.9 from 52 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Assemble the Pudding: Pour the hot custard over the layered bananas and wafers in the casserole dish, ensuring the custard covers the layers evenly.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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