Cooked Banana Pudding
Creamy banana pudding layered with vanilla wafers and fresh bananas, topped with meringue and baked to perfection—an indulgent dessert perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, vanilla pudding mix, and salt in a 3-quart heavy pan.
- Stir in egg yolks and milk; cook, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.
- Spread a small amount of custard on the bottom of a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Layer vanilla wafers over the custard.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers.
- Pour about half of the custard over the bananas.
- Repeat layers with remaining wafers, bananas, and custard.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff but not dry.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the entire surface of the pudding, sealing to the edges.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk or a combination of milk and heavy cream. If you want to reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup. Additionally, you can replace vanilla wafers with graham crackers for a different flavor profile. Be sure to whisk the egg yolks thoroughly to ensure a smooth custard.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this banana pudding chilled or slightly warm, garnished with extra banana slices or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top for added texture. It pairs beautifully with Tanya'S Party Time Cheese Ball for a delightful gathering. Consider serving it alongside coffee or tea for a comforting dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until warm. Avoid reheating the entire dish in the oven, as this may cause the meringue to become tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cooked Banana Pudding contains roughly 1096 calories, with 12g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1437mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this banana pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the custard and layer it with bananas and wafers a day in advance. Just wait to add the meringue until you're ready to bake and serve, as it can lose its texture if stored for too long.
What can I substitute for the vanilla pudding mix?
If you don’t have vanilla pudding mix, you can make a homemade custard using cornstarch, sugar, and vanilla extract. This will give you a similar flavor and texture, and it’s a great alternative for those looking to avoid pre-packaged mixes.
How do I know when the meringue is ready?
The meringue is ready when it forms stiff peaks and holds its shape when you lift the whisk. Be careful not to overbeat, as this can cause it to become dry. A shiny appearance is also a good indicator of perfect meringue.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).