This effortless banana pudding recipe requires no cooking and is a delightful combination of creamy layers with vanilla wafers and fresh banana slices. Many have claimed it’s the best banana pudding they’ve ever tasted!
Table of Contents
How is pudding made from scratch?
Making pudding from scratch typically combines essential ingredients such as milk, sugar, eggs, and a thickening agent like cornstarch or flour. First, milk is heated gently in a saucepan while sugar and cornstarch (or flour) are mixed separately. Once the milk is warm, the dry mixture is whisked in slowly to avoid lumps. Some recipes may call for tempering eggs by adding a small amount of the hot milk mixture into beaten eggs before gradually incorporating them back into the pudding to avoid curdling. The mixture is then cooked over medium heat until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Finally, the pudding is flavoured, often with vanilla or chocolate, and left to cool before serving.
How can you keep bananas from turning brown in banana pudding?
To prevent bananas from turning brown in banana pudding, you can use a few tricks. The most common method is to lightly coat the banana slices with lemon or citrus juice, which slows down oxidation—the process that causes browning. You can also dip the bananas in pineapple juice for a milder taste. Another tip is to assemble the pudding just before serving, which minimizes the time the bananas are exposed to air. Additionally, covering the top layer of bananas completely with pudding or whipped topping can create a barrier that reduces contact with oxygen, helping to keep them fresher longer.
How to Store Banana Pudding
To keep your banana pudding fresh, tightly cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. Make sure it’s chilled until you’re ready to serve.
How to use old bananas?
Old bananas can be incredibly versatile in the kitchen and are perfect for baking or blending. One of the most popular uses is banana bread or muffins, whose natural sweetness and soft texture enhance the flavour and moisture of the baked goods. For a delicious, healthy breakfast, you can also mash them into pancakes or waffles. Another option is blending them into smoothies or milkshakes, adding natural sweetness and creaminess. Overripe bananas can also be frozen and used later in recipes or for making creamy banana-based ice cream. Additionally, they work well in puddings, cakes, or even as a natural sweetener for oatmeal or yoghurt.
Ingredients
14 bananas, sliced (or adjusted to taste)
2 cups of cold milk
1 (5-ounce) package of instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
One tablespoon of vanilla extract
1 (12-ounce) container of thawed frozen whipped topping
1 (16-ounce) package of vanilla wafers
How to make Banana Pudding step by step
Prepare Ingredients:
Gather all of your ingredients to begin.
Mix the Pudding:
Whisk together the milk and vanilla pudding mix in a large bowl for about 2 minutes until thickening. Gradually stir in the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is smooth.
Incorporate Vanilla and Whipped Topping:
Add the vanilla extract, then gently fold the thawed whipped topping until everything is well combined.
Layer the Dessert:
Layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and the pudding mixture in a glass bowl, repeating until all ingredients are used.
Chill and Serve:
Let the dessert chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavours to set. If you like, garnish with extra crushed vanilla wafers for added crunch before serving. Enjoy!
Can You Freeze Banana Pudding?
Banana pudding doesn’t freeze well due to its creamy texture. Luckily, this recipe is so easy to make that preparing it fresh before serving shouldn’t be a hassle. Plus, with its deliciousness, chances are there won’t be any leftovers!
Banana pudding is a classic dessert combining creamy, sweet bananas and crunchy vanilla wafers for a perfectly balanced treat. Whether enjoyed at family gatherings, potlucks, or as a simple homemade dessert, its timeless appeal comes from the delicious combination of textures and flavours. Easy to make, versatile, and customizable, banana pudding is beloved for satisfying cravings for comfort food and indulgent sweetness. It’s a dessert that highlights the balance of simplicity and flavour, making it a favourite across generations.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding is a timeless dessert that combines creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy wafers in perfect harmony. It’s rich flavours and comforting texture make it a beloved choice for gatherings, family meals, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Whether you prepare it as a classic layered dish or spin it with whipped cream or caramel, Banana Pudding is sure to evoke nostalgia and smiles from everyone who tastes it. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dessert is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a delightful way to celebrate the sweetness of life. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious dessert, and savour every spoonful!
If you try this Banana pudding recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Feel free to share your experience in the comments below—your feedback will be helpful to others in the community!