Graham Banana Pudding
Creamy banana pudding layered with graham crackers and ripe bananas, topped with whipped cream for a comforting dessert perfect for family gatherings and casual occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whisk together the half and half, eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the margarine (butter) and vanilla extract.
- Layer graham crackers, sliced bananas, and the pudding in a 2 1/2 to 3-quart casserole dish, repeating layers as needed.
- Cover and chill the assembled pudding until set.
- (Optional) Before serving, top with whipped cream mixed with sugar, beating until soft peaks form.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier pudding, consider using whole milk instead of half and half. If you want to reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute like stevia in place of some of the sugar. To prevent bananas from browning, toss them in a bit of lemon juice before layering. This dessert pairs beautifully with Graham Toffees for a delightful sweet treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Graham Banana Pudding chilled for a refreshing dessert. It can be topped with whipped cream mixed with sugar for added sweetness and texture. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be paired with coffee or tea. For a fun twist, consider serving alongside Hotsy'S Cookies for a delightful dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding may soften over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you want to reheat it, gently warm individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Graham Banana Pudding contains roughly 496 calories, with 6g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Graham Banana Pudding a day in advance. Just assemble the layers and chill it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier when served the next day.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine can work well. Just ensure it melts smoothly into the pudding mixture.
How do I prevent the bananas from turning brown?
To prevent bananas from browning, you can drizzle them with a little lemon juice before layering them in the pudding. This acidity helps maintain their bright color, keeping your dessert looking fresh and appealing.
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).