Mike'S Favorite Banana Pudding
Mike's Favorite Banana Pudding is a creamy, sweet dessert layered with bananas, vanilla wafers, and a rich custard, perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In large bowl, alternate layers of vanilla wafers and sliced bananas.
- Save 10 or 12 wafers for topping.
- In a saucepan, combine self-rising flour, brown sugar, white sugar, milk, and well-beaten egg yolks.
- Cook until mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat; add vanilla extract and butter.
- Mix well and pour over the layered wafers and bananas.
- Add the remaining wafers on top for garnish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier pudding, consider using whole milk instead of 2% or substituting half-and-half for a richer texture. When layering, ensure the bananas are ripe but not overly brown for the best flavor. If you want a fun twist, add a layer of crushed nuts or chocolate chips between the vanilla wafers and bananas. This pudding is a classic American dessert that can stand proudly alongside Wacky Chocolate Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful banana pudding chilled for the best flavor. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of Rainbow Ice Cream Cake for a fun dessert spread. You can also top each serving with whipped cream for added richness, making it a perfect treat for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it later, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, as this will help restore its creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as it may change the consistency of the pudding and bananas.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mike'S Favorite Banana Pudding contains roughly 645 calories, with 11g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A.
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 use different types of bananas?
While any banana variety will work, it's best to use Cavendish bananas for their sweet flavor and creamy texture. Avoid using overly ripe or bruised bananas as they can make the pudding mushy. If you want a twist, consider using plantains, but remember to adjust the sweetness accordingly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this banana pudding gluten-free, simply replace the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the vanilla wafers, are certified gluten-free. This allows you to enjoy this classic dessert without gluten while maintaining its delicious flavor.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
To prevent browning, slice the bananas just before assembling the pudding. You can also toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice, which helps slow down the oxidation process. This ensures your pudding looks fresh and appetizing when served, especially if you're preparing it ahead of time.
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).