Mamas Magnoliaworthy Homemade Banana Pudding

Recipe Introduction: It's Banana Pudding Time!

Ever get a craving for something sweet, creamy, and utterly comforting? Oh my gosh, do I have the dessert for you! We're diving headfirst into a batch of Homemade Banana Pudding .

This ain't your grandma's instant pudding mix. We are gonna do it from scratch, and trust me, it's worth every single second.

Southern Comfort in a Bowl

Southern Banana Pudding is a true classic. It is a taste of the South that has been passed down through generations.

Picture yourself on a porch swing with a bowl of this creamy goodness. This recipe is inspired by Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe .

It takes a little effort, but it's totally manageable. We are using basic home cooking skills. It will take about two hours of active time.

This easy banana pudding recipe makes enough for 6-8 happy folks.

Why This Banana Pudding Rocks

Honestly, it’s the layers, you know? Creamy custard, sweet bananas, and those vanilla wafer dessert bits that get perfectly soft.

This classic dessert recipes is not only delicious but also comforting. Bananas are packed with potassium, so you can almost call it healthy.

This recipe is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or any time you need a little dose of happiness. Now, I'm gonna show you how to make banana pudding , so grab your apron! Let's get started.

Ready to Roll? Time for Ingredients!

We're about to dive into the list of everything you'll need. Let's get prepared to learn How To Make Desserts .

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Real About {Homemade} Banana Pudding

So, you wanna know How To Make Banana Pudding that's actually good? Not that store-bought stuff. I'm talking proper Southern Banana Pudding ! Cool.

First, let's gather our bits and bobs. Trust me, nailing the ingredients and having the right kit makes this Easy Banana Pudding Recipe a total breeze.

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

Here's what you'll need for this Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe . I've included both US and metric measurements, because, well, why not? Accuracy is important in dessert.

It will also work as How To Make Desserts .

• Whole Milk: 2 cups (473 ml) – Full fat, people. Don't skimp!
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (118 ml) – This is what makes it rich and dreamy, Vanilla Wafer Dessert needs cream
• Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g) – Regular white sugar works just fine.
• Kosher Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 ml) – Don't forget this! It balances the sweetness.
• Egg Yolks: 4 large (200g) – Free range if you can find them. The colour is amazing.
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons (14 g) – This helps thicken the custard.
• Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (28 g) – Cold and cubed. Seriously, cold!
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons (10 ml) – Real vanilla is always better. But go with what you have.
• Vanilla Wafers: 1 box (11 oz/ 312g) – Nabisco Nilla Wafers are the OG.
• Bananas: 3-4 ripe but firm – Not mushy, mind you!
• Powdered Sugar: 2 tablespoons (25g) – For the optional whipped cream.
• Heavy Cream (for topping): 1 cup (237 ml) – Because who doesn't love whipped cream?

Quality Check: For the bananas, go for ones that are yellow with a few brown spots. They should be fragrant.

Seasoning Notes: The Flavor Boosters

Now, about the flavourings. Simple is best here. Classic Dessert Recipes are classic for a reason, right?

• Vanilla: Vanilla is key. I use extract, but a vanilla bean scraped into the milk would be DIVINE.
• Salt: Seriously, don't skip the salt. It enhances the sweetness.
• Substitution: If you're feeling fancy, a splash of bourbon or rum in the custard? Chef's kiss .

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don't need a fancy kitchen to whip up this {Homemade} Banana Pudding .

• Saucepan: A medium one will do.
• Whisk: For making sure that custard is smooth.
• Heatproof Bowl: For cooling that custard.
• Plastic Wrap: To prevent a skin from forming on your custard.
• Electric Mixer: For whipped cream. Or, ya know, a whisk and some elbow grease.
• Baking Dish: A 9x13 inch (23x33cm) dish or a pretty trifle bowl. Because presentation matters.

That's all there is to it! Now you're totally set How To Make Banana Pudding as individual Banana Pudding Cups or a big ol' dish, inspired by the Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe .

How To Make Banana Pudding: From Scratch, Like Mama Meant To

Alright, let's talk Homemade Banana Pudding . It is a total classic! Forget that instant stuff. We're making the real deal today.

We're making a banana pudding that rivals the Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe . It's all about that creamy custard. This Easy Banana Pudding Recipe is simpler than you think.

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

Essential mise en place is key. Slice 3-4 ripe bananas. Have 1 box of vanilla wafers ready. Gather your custard ingredients.

Time saving tip: Measure everything beforehand. Safety: Keep those little fingers away from the sharp knives!

step-by-step: Building Banana Pudding Cups of Heaven

1. First, get your custard going. Whisk 2 cups milk , 0.5 cup cream , 0.5 cup sugar , and 1/4 tsp salt in a pan.
2. Now, in a separate bowl, whisk 4 egg yolks and 2 Tbsp cornstarch . Temper those yolks! Slowly pour in some hot milk, whisking like mad.
3. Pour the yolk mix back into the pot. Cook on medium low heat. Keep stirring until thick. It should coat the back of a spoon. This will take about 5- 7 minutes .
4. Off the heat! Stir in 2 Tbsp butter and 2 tsp vanilla .
5. Pour into a bowl. Press plastic wrap onto the surface. This prevents a skin from forming. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours . Overnight is even better!
6. Layer vanilla wafers, bananas, and custard in a dish. That is how to make a classic Southern Banana Pudding .
7. Top with whipped cream, if you are feeling fancy.
8. Chill again. This lets the flavors meld.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Pudding

Expert technique: Use ripe, but firm bananas. Mushy bananas are a no-go. Common mistake: Overcooking the custard! Avoid this at all costs.

This makes a bad Vanilla Wafer Dessert . make-ahead: This pudding is best made a day in advance. It gives the wafers time to soften.

That is How To Make Desserts ! If you follow this Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe exactly, you will never ask How To Make Pudding again.

Alright, sugar, let's talk {Homemade} Banana Pudding . Not just any banana pudding, mind you, but the kind that makes your soul sing! After all, who doesn't love Southern Banana Pudding, just like Grandma used to make? But before you dive in, let's get you prepped with a few extra notes.

Recipe Notes

Want to create the best Easy Banana Pudding Recipe ? Here are a few secrets that I've picked up from How To Make Desserts over the years.

Serving Suggestions: Dress Up Your Pudding!

Presentation, y'all! Think layers upon layers in a fancy trifle bowl. If you are fancy, use a stemmed glass for individual Banana Pudding Cups , but don’t stress too much.

A simple bowl works just fine. Sprinkle a bit of crushed vanilla wafers on top for that extra crunch. And for sides? Sweet tea is the obvious choice, or even some strong coffee.

Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh

Leftover banana pudding? Oh my gosh, if that even happens. This Classic Dessert Recipes is best eaten fresh, but you can store it.

Pop it in the fridge, covered tightly, for up to 3 days . Honestly, after that, the bananas get a bit sad.

Freezing? Not recommended, the texture will change. Reheating? Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit to soften.

Variations: Twist the Tradition!

Wanna get fancy? Add a little bourbon to the custard for a grown-up kick. Alternatively, you can make dairy-free How To Make Pudding , by using coconut milk and dairy-free cookies! If you want a seasonal twist, add some chopped pecans in the fall.

You get me?

Nutrition Basics: A Little Treat

Let’s be real; this isn’t health food. But a small serving can be a nice treat. Here's the Simplified Nutrition Information .

It gives you some happiness. This recipe contains dairy, gluten, and sugar, so be mindful if you have dietary restrictions.

So there you have it. All the extra bits and bobs you need to make this Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe a total success.

Don’t be scared to experiment, have fun, and most importantly, enjoy every single bite! If you want to learn How To Make Banana Pudding this is the recipe.

You can even try to create the Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my homemade banana pudding runny? It's not setting up like it should!

A runny banana pudding usually means the custard wasn't cooked long enough or the egg yolks weren't properly tempered. Make sure to cook the custard until it's thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and remember to slowly add the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks while whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.

Chilling it thoroughly is also key; sometimes it just needs more time in the fridge to set up properly.

How can I stop my bananas from going brown in the {Homemade} Banana Pudding?

Nobody wants brown, mushy bananas in their pudding! The key is to use bananas that are ripe but still firm. Toss the sliced bananas with a little lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering them into the pudding; the acidity helps prevent browning.

Also, assemble the pudding as close to serving time as possible for the freshest flavor and appearance.

Can I make {Homemade} Banana Pudding ahead of time? How long will it last in the fridge?

Absolutely! In fact, banana pudding is often better when made a day in advance, as it allows the flavors to meld and the vanilla wafers to soften slightly. Store your banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it should last for 2-3 days.

Just be aware that the bananas might continue to soften over time.

Can I use instant pudding mix instead of making the custard from scratch for this Homemade Banana Pudding?

While you can use instant pudding mix in a pinch (we've all been there!), making the custard from scratch really elevates the dish and gives it that true "homemade" taste. The texture and flavor are so much richer and more satisfying when you take the extra time.

Think of it like the difference between instant coffee and a proper barista made latte both have caffeine, but only one makes you say "aaah!".

What are some fun variations I can try with this banana pudding recipe?

Get creative with it! For a chocolate twist, swirl some cocoa powder into the custard while it's cooking. A splash of rum or bourbon in the custard adds a lovely warmth for adults. You could even try using different types of cookies like shortbread or ginger snaps instead of vanilla wafers.

Go wild and make it your own!