banana pudding with vanilla wafers recipe

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banana pudding with vanilla wafers recipe
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The Best banana pudding with vanilla wafers recipe

I have been making banana pudding with vanilla wafers for as long as I can remember. It is one of those recipes that always brings a smile to my kids’ faces. The combination of creamy pudding, ripe bananas, and those classic vanilla wafers is just perfect. This dessert is great for any occasion, from a simple weeknight treat to a big family gathering. It is also a good way to use up bananas that are getting too ripe. Plus, bananas are a good source of potassium, so I feel a little better about serving this as a dessert.

Classic Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers

Classic Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers

4.9 from 1283 votes

This is a creamy, no-bake dessert that layers vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. It is a classic Southern recipe that is loved by all ages.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 30 mins (includes chilling)
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pudding

3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 cups whole milk
4 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For Assembly

1 (12-ounce) box vanilla wafers
4 to 5 ripe bananas, sliced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream, cold
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
2Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. This will take about 8 to 10 minutes.
3In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly whisk about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to temper them. Then, pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
4Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 2 more minutes until the pudding is very thick. Remove from heat and stir in the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
5Pour the pudding into a large bowl and press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
6While the pudding cools, make the whipped cream. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract with a hand mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
7To assemble, spread a thin layer of the cooled pudding on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with a layer of vanilla wafers, then a layer of sliced bananas. Spread half of the remaining pudding over the bananas.
8Add another layer of vanilla wafers and bananas. Spread the remaining pudding on top. Finally, spread the whipped cream over the pudding layer.
9Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This allows the wafers to soften and the flavors to blend. Serve chilled.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Large mixing bowl
Hand mixer or stand mixer
9×13 inch baking dish
Rubber spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 145mg🧂Sodium: 250mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 28g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

For a quicker version, you can use a 5.1 ounce box of instant vanilla pudding mix. Prepare the pudding with 2 cups of milk according to package directions and skip the stovetop method. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Watch Video Of How Classic Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers Works

This banana pudding with vanilla wafers is a dessert I turn to again and again. It is simple to put together and always a hit with my family and friends. Whether it is for a holiday dinner or a Sunday lunch, this creamy, comforting dessert never disappoints.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers

1. Can I use instant pudding mix instead of making pudding from scratch?

Yes, you can. Many people use instant vanilla pudding mix for convenience. Just follow the package directions using 2 cups of milk. The texture will be a bit lighter, but it still tastes great and saves time.

2. How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?

To keep the bananas from browning, make sure they are fully covered by the pudding and whipped cream. The layers act as a barrier to air. Also, use ripe but still firm bananas. You can also toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering, but this can change the flavor slightly.

3. Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?

Yes, this is a great make ahead dessert. It actually tastes better after it has chilled for several hours or overnight. The vanilla wafers soften and the pudding thickens. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

4. What if I don’t have a hand mixer for the whipped cream?

You can whip the cream by hand using a whisk and a large bowl. It will take a bit of elbow grease, but it works. Alternatively, you can use a can of whipped cream from the store, though the texture and flavor will be different.

5. Can I use a different type of cookie instead of vanilla wafers?

Yes, you can experiment. Some people use shortbread cookies, graham crackers, or even ginger snaps for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and sweetness will change. Vanilla wafers are classic for a reason, but feel free to try something new.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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