Grandma Armstrong'S Banana Pudding
Grandma Armstrong's Banana Pudding is a classic, creamy dessert featuring layers of sweet bananas, vanilla wafers, and a rich custard. Topped with fluffy meringue if desired, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for family gatherings or a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Mix sugar and cornstarch in a bowl.
- Add egg yolks to the sugar and cornstarch mixture, whisking until smooth.
- Pour this mixture into the scalded milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and the custard in a serving dish, repeating layers until all ingredients are used.
- Top with a meringue if desired, then bake or chill as preferred.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier pudding, use whole milk or a combination of whole milk and heavy cream. If you're short on bananas, consider adding a layer of sliced strawberries for a fruity twist. You can also substitute vanilla wafers with graham crackers or any favorite cookie. Ensure the custard cools slightly before layering to prevent the wafers from becoming too soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma Armstrong's Banana Pudding chilled, garnished with additional banana slices or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a slice of Virginia's Cookies for a delightful dessert experience. For a more festive touch, consider serving alongside Mocha Truffles to balance the sweetness of the pudding.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid curdling. If you added meringue, it may not hold up well after refrigeration, so consider serving it fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Armstrong'S Banana Pudding contains roughly 574 calories, with 10g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C.
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 pudding a day in advance. Just layer the wafers and bananas right before serving to maintain their texture. The custard can be stored in the fridge, but keep the wafers separate until you're ready to enjoy the dessert.
What can I substitute for the vanilla wafers?
If you don't have vanilla wafers, you can use graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even chocolate cookies for a different flavor profile. Each option will provide a unique taste and texture to the banana pudding while still creating delicious layers.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Grandma Armstrong's Banana Pudding gluten-free, simply use gluten-free vanilla wafers or cookies. Additionally, ensure that the cornstarch is certified gluten-free, and your pudding will be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).