Marjorie'S "Big" Banana Pudding
Marjorie's
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, flour, and salt; set aside.
- Beat egg yolks separately (whites are for meringue).
- Add 4 cups of milk to egg yolks and mix well.
- Combine this mixture with the sugar, flour, and salt mixture and stir.
- Add the remaining milk and vanilla extract.
- Cook in a double boiler until the pudding begins to thicken.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Layer sliced bananas and vanilla wafers in a serving dish.
- Beat egg whites until stiff, then add 1 cup sugar and beat again to form meringue.
- Pour cooled pudding over the layered bananas and wafers.
- Top with the beaten egg whites and bake in a 400°F oven until lightly brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat milk. If you're short on time, you can substitute the homemade meringue with store-bought whipped cream. When layering, make sure the bananas are fresh to avoid browning, or sprinkle them with lemon juice. This dessert is a classic in American recipes, perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this banana pudding chilled for the best flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with Vanilla Icing for an extra touch of sweetness. Consider offering a side of Crispy Cheese as a contrast to the dessert’s creaminess, or enjoy it alongside fresh berries for a refreshing balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the meringue becomes soggy, you can reheat individual servings in the oven at a low temperature just until warm, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marjorie'S "Big" Banana Pudding contains roughly 1643 calories, with 20g protein, 268g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2083mg per serving (91% 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 pudding and layer it with bananas and wafers a day in advance. Just add the meringue right before serving to keep it fluffy and prevent it from weeping.
What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?
If you can't find vanilla wafers, you can substitute with graham crackers or even shortbread cookies for a different flavor profile. Both will provide a nice texture and taste that complements the pudding.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
To keep the bananas from browning, you can toss them in a little lemon juice before layering. This will help maintain their color and freshness throughout the time they are in the pudding.
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).