There’s something truly magical about Homemade Banana Pudding. It’s a nostalgic dessert that combines creamy pudding, ripe bananas, crunchy vanilla wafers, and a light, fluffy meringue topping. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just treating yourself to some comfort food, this dessert always brings smiles to the table.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through making this delicious classic step-by-step. From creating the creamy homemade pudding to perfecting the golden meringue, you’ll learn all the tips and tricks to nail this recipe every time.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Banana Pudding :

This Homemade Banana Pudding is:

• Classic Comfort Food: A blend of creamy textures and sweet banana flavor, it’s an American classic that never gets old.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a dessert that fits family dinners, potlucks, or holidays.
• Made from Scratch: No boxed mixes here! You’ll create a rich pudding and meringue topping from scratch for that homemade taste.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable for dietary needs or personal preferences.

Ingredients for Homemade Banana Pudding :

For the Pudding:

• ¾ cup sugar
• 4 Tbsp. flour
• ⅛ tsp. salt
• 1 whole egg
• 3 cups milk
• 4 egg yolks (save the whites for meringue)
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

For the Crust:

• 1 package vanilla wafers
• 4 bananas (ripe, but not overly soft)

For the Meringue:

• 4 egg whites
• ¼ cup sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions :

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 13” x 9” casserole dish. This step ensures the meringue will brown beautifully.

Prepare the Pudding

1. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix sugar, flour, salt, one whole egg, and milk until smooth.
2. Incorporate Egg Yolks: Add the 4 egg yolks and whisk until fully combined.
3. Cook the Pudding: Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid lumps. Cook until the pudding thickens (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Add Vanilla: Once thickened, remove the pudding from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Assemble the Crust and Filling

1. Layer the Wafers: Line the bottom and sides of the greased casserole dish with vanilla wafers.
2. Add Bananas: Slice two bananas and layer them over the wafers.
   • Pro Tip: Slice bananas just before layering to prevent browning.
3. Pour Half the Pudding: Spread half of the pudding over the bananas and wafers.
4. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of banana slices (using the remaining two bananas) and pour the rest of the pudding on top.

Make the Meringue

1. Whip Egg Whites: In a large mixing bowl, whip the egg whites with an electric mixer until they form stiff peaks.
2. Add Sugar: Gradually add sugar while whipping until the meringue is glossy and well-formed.
3. Spread the Meringue: Gently spread the meringue over the pudding mixture, ensuring it reaches the edges to seal in the layers.

Bake

Bake the pudding in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the pudding to cool at room temperature before refrigerating it for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the pudding to set for a thicker texture.

Tips for Success :

• Banana Ripeness: Use bananas that are ripe but firm for the best flavor and texture.
• Stir Constantly: When cooking the pudding, stir frequently to prevent lumps or scorching.
• Seal the Meringue: Spread the meringue to the edges of the dish to prevent it from shrinking during baking.

Variations of Homemade Banana Pudding :

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers for a gluten-free version of this dessert.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk for cow’s milk in the pudding.
• Extra Crunch: Add a layer of crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers for added texture.

Serving Suggestions :

This Homemade Banana Pudding pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Serve it chilled for a refreshing dessert, or slightly warm for cozy vibes.

Storage Instructions :

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as the bananas and pudding may become watery upon thawing.

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Yield: 8

Homemade Banana Pudding

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Learn how to make the best homemade banana pudding with this easy step-by-step recipe. Creamy pudding, ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and fluffy meringue baked to perfection!

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• ¾ cup sugar
• 4 Tbsp. flour
• ⅛ tsp. salt
• 1 whole egg
• 3 cups milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 package vanilla wafers
• 4 bananas
• 4 egg whites
• ¼ cup sugar

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a 13” x 9” casserole dish.

Prepare the pudding: Mix sugar, flour, salt, one whole egg, and milk in a saucepan. Add egg yolks, cook until thickened, and stir in vanilla.

Assemble: Line the casserole dish with wafers, layer banana slices, pour pudding, and repeat.

Make meringue: Whip egg whites to stiff peaks, add sugar, and spread over pudding.

Bake for 8-10 minutes until meringue is golden.

Cool and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

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