This homemade Banana Cream Pudding is rich, smooth, and packed with fresh banana flavor. Made with layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers, it’s a classic dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or anytime you crave comfort food.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients
For the Pudding
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For Assembly
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box (11 ounces) vanilla wafers
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
Step 2: Cook the Pudding
Place the saucepan over medium heat.
Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and gently bubble, about 6–8 minutes.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks.
Slowly add about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture to the yolks while whisking continuously.
Step 4: Finish the Pudding
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, whisking constantly, until thick and silky.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
Step 5: Cool Slightly
Transfer the pudding to a bowl.
Place plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Allow it to cool for about 15 minutes.
Step 6: Assemble the Dessert
In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers.
Top with a layer of banana slices.
Spread a layer of pudding over the bananas.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
Step 7: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Step 8: Serve
Before serving, top with whipped cream and a few crushed vanilla wafers if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe bananas with yellow peels and a few brown spots for the best flavor.
- Assemble the pudding the same day you plan to serve it to keep the bananas fresh.
- For extra banana flavor, add 1 teaspoon banana extract to the pudding.
- Chill overnight for a softer, more cake-like texture as the wafers absorb moisture.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Not recommended, as the texture of the pudding and bananas may change after thawing.
Variations
No-Bake Version
Use instant vanilla pudding mix instead of homemade pudding for a quicker dessert.
Banana Caramel Pudding
Drizzle layers with caramel sauce.
Chocolate Banana Pudding
Add a layer of chocolate pudding or chocolate shavings between layers.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 34g
This Banana Cream Pudding is a timeless dessert with creamy vanilla custard, sweet bananas, and soft vanilla wafers, creating a comforting treat that everyone loves.