Banana pudding with vanilla wafers is a delightful, creamy banana dessert that brings nostalgia and comfort to any table. This classic Southern dessert features luscious layers of homemade banana pudding, sweet banana slices, and crisp vanilla wafers, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on your palate.
Ingredients
Scale:
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 3/4 cups milk
3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 ripe bananas, sliced
1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and salt until fully combined. Gradually add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken—about 8-10 minutes.
Once thickened, temper the egg yolks by adding a small amount of the hot pudding mixture to them, whisking constantly. Gradually add the egg mixture back into the saucepan while stirring continuously. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pudding is thick.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the pudding into a bowl and cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully chilled—about 2 hours.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form—about 3-5 minutes.
In a large trifle dish or individual cups, start layering the dessert with vanilla wafers, followed by banana slices, then chilled pudding, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
Cover the assembled banana pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled, garnished with additional banana slices or crushed vanilla wafers.
