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Classic Southern Banana Pudding Recipe Easy Homemade Custard Guide

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A nostalgic Southern dessert featuring layers of ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a rich homemade custard that is creamy and indulgent. Perfect for gatherings and easy to make with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 4 to 5 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 box vanilla wafers
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream or homemade meringue, fresh mint leaves

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Stir occasionally until just about to simmer but not boiling.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with cornstarch until smooth and pale.
  3. Slowly pour about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
  4. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
  5. Return pan to low-medium heat, whisking constantly until custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla extract until combined. Pour into a bowl, cover surface with plastic wrap, and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate at least 1 hour.
  7. Slice bananas and start layering in serving dish: vanilla wafers, banana slices, then custard. Repeat layers, finishing with custard on top.
  8. Refrigerate assembled pudding for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow wafers to soften and flavors to meld.
  9. Before serving, optionally top with whipped cream or meringue and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Notes

Keep heat medium to low when cooking custard to avoid scrambling eggs. Whisk constantly for smooth texture. Chill pudding overnight for best flavor and texture. Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana pudding, southern dessert, homemade custard, vanilla wafers, easy dessert, classic banana pudding

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