This homemade banana pudding layers silky vanilla custard, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers in individual cups—perfect for parties or a sweet treat!
Ingredients (Makes 6 servings)
For the Pudding
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or 2% for lighter texture)
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter (for richness)
For Layering
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced (toss in lemon juice to prevent browning!)
- 2 cups vanilla wafers (crushed for base, whole for garnish)
- 1 cup whipped cream (homemade or Cool Whip)
- ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional sprinkle)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Pudding (Stovetop Custard)
- In a saucepan, whisk milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, then temper by slowly adding ¼ cup hot milk mixture while whisking.
- Pour yolk mix back into the saucepan and cook 3-5 mins, stirring constantly, until thick like custard.
- Off heat, stir in vanilla + butter. Let cool 10 mins.
2. Assemble the Cups
- Layer in glasses (or a trifle dish):
- Crushed wafers (base)
- Banana slices
- Pudding
- Repeat layers
- Finish with pudding on top.
3. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate 1+ hour (or overnight for softer wafers).
- Before serving, top with:
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon
- Whole wafer
FAQs & Tips
Q: Can I use instant pudding?
✅ Yes! Swap for 2 (3.4 oz) boxes vanilla pudding mix + 3 cups milk (skip stovetop steps).
Q: How to keep bananas from browning?
➡️ Toss slices in 1 tbsp lemon juice or layer them between pudding immediately.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
✅ Assemble up to 1 day in advance (add whipped cream last minute).
Q: What if my pudding is lumpy?
⚠️ Strain through a sieve or blend until smooth.
Q: Can I use Nilla Wafers?
✅ Yes! Classic Nilla Wafers work perfectly.
Serving Ideas
🍓 Garnish with:
- Caramel drizzle
- Toasted coconut
- Fresh berries
🎉 Perfect for:
- Summer BBQs
- Potlucks
- Kids’ desserts
Nutrition (per cup): ~320 kcal
This Southern-style banana pudding is creamy, nostalgic, and oh-so-easy—no baking required! 😊
Love texture? Add chopped pecans between layers! 🌟
