Vanilla Wafer Banana Pudding
A creamy banana pudding layered with vanilla wafers and topped with a fluffy meringue, perfect for family gatherings and dessert lovers craving classic comfort flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald milk in the top of a double boiler over direct heat.
- Mix egg yolks with sugar until creamy.
- Add salt and flour to the egg mixture.
- Slowly add the egg mixture to the hot milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture reaches the right consistency.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.
- Layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and the pudding sauce in a serving dish, repeating layers as desired.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar to the egg whites and beat until glossy and stiff.
- Spread the meringue over the assembled pudding and bake until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk or adding a splash of heavy cream to the pudding. If you're short on time, pre-made pudding can be substituted for the homemade version, though it may alter the final texture. To enhance the flavor, you can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. This dish is a great way to use overripe bananas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the banana pudding chilled for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful twist, consider serving with a slice of Grandma Oakley'S Jelly Cake on the side. This dessert can also be garnished with crushed vanilla wafers for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be aware that the bananas may brown, but this won't affect the taste. To serve leftovers, you can enjoy them cold, or for a warm treat, briefly heat in the microwave; just be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vanilla Wafer Banana Pudding contains roughly 244 calories, with 4g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1250mg per serving (54% 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 the wafers and bananas a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the meringue topping just before serving to ensure it stays fluffy and doesn't weep.
What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?
If you can't find vanilla wafers, you can substitute with graham crackers or even ladyfingers. Both options will provide a different flavor profile but will work well in layering with the pudding and bananas.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
To prevent browning, you can toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering them in the pudding. This will help preserve their color while adding a hint of citrus flavor that complements the dish.
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).