Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding
Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding is a classic dessert featuring layers of ripe bananas and vanilla wafers, all coated in a rich, creamy custard. Its sweet, comforting flavors make it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, offering a nostalgic treat that balances fruitiness with smooth vanilla notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 1/2 cup sugar, flour, and salt in the top of a double boiler.
- Mix in 1 whole egg and 3 egg yolks.
- Stir in milk.
- Cook, uncovered, over boiling water, stirring constantly, until thick. Remove from heat.
- Stir in vanilla.
- Pour the custard over layered bananas and wafers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whole milk or substitute half-and-half for a richer custard. If you're short on time, consider using store-bought pudding instead of making your own. You can also try adding a splash of rum or bourbon for a unique twist. To prevent browning, toss sliced bananas in a little lemon juice before layering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the banana pudding in individual cups for a delightful presentation. Garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top for added texture. This dessert pairs beautifully with Sanda'S Homemade Pancakes for a delightful brunch. Enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a microwave, but be careful not to overheat as it may alter the texture. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so you can also serve it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding contains roughly 256 calories, with 3g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1014mg per serving (44% 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 use other types of cookies instead of vanilla wafers?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla wafers with other cookies like shortbread or graham crackers. Each will impart a different flavor, but they can work well in this recipe. Just be sure to choose a cookie that holds up well when layered with the custard and bananas.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
To prevent bananas from browning, you can toss the sliced bananas in a little lemon juice before layering them in the pudding. This will help maintain their vibrant color and freshness, making your dessert look more appealing.
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the custard and layer it with bananas and wafers a day in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more delicious dessert. Just add the bananas shortly before serving to keep them fresh.
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).