Old Fashioned Banana Pudding Recipe

The allure of Old Fashioned Banana Pudding lies not just in its creamy texture and delightful mix of flavors but also in its ability to evoke nostalgia and comfort with each spoonful. This timeless dessert combines ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a homemade custard, crowned with a light and airy meringue, to create a dish that feels both luxurious and heartwarmingly simple. Here's how you can create this classic treat in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

 

• For the Pudding:
  • 1 12 oz can evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ teaspoon salt
  • 6 large egg yolks (reserve the whites for meringue)
  • 2 ⅔ cups half & half
  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 11 oz box vanilla wafers
  • 4 medium bananas, sliced
• For the Meringue:
  • 6 reserved egg whites
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 6 tablespoon granulated sugar

Preparation:

 

Step 1: Custard Base

In a medium-size mixing bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, flour, and salt until well dissolved. This forms the base of your custard, ensuring a smooth texture.

Step 2: Warming the Mixture

Transfer this mixture to a heavy-bottomed saucepan and warm over medium-high heat. Stir continuously to prevent sticking or burning. This step is crucial for dissolving the sugar and flour completely.

Step 3: Egg Yolks Incorporation

In the same mixing bowl used earlier, whisk the egg yolks with the half & half. Gradually whisk this into the warmed evaporated milk mixture on the stove. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 10-15 minutes until the custard has thickened.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once thickened, remove the custard from heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This adds richness and flavor depth to your pudding.

Step 5: Assembling the Pudding

Layer the bottom of a 7 x 11-inch oven-safe dish with vanilla wafers. Add a layer of banana slices over the wafers, then cover with half of the custard. Repeat this process, ending with a custard layer on top.

Step 6: Meringue Topping

Whip the reserved egg whites with vanilla extract and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to whip into stiff peaks. Spread this meringue over the top layer of custard.

Step 7: Broiling

Set your oven to broil and toast the meringue until golden brown. This not only adds color but also a delightful texture contrast to the creamy pudding.

Step 8: Garnishing

Optionally, garnish the edges of the pudding with additional vanilla wafers for a decorative touch and extra crunch.

Step 9: Chilling

Store the banana pudding in the refrigerator, chilled, until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

 

Cooking Note:

The key to a perfect custard is constant stirring and patience. Ensure your heat is not too high to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this pudding chilled, ideally after a few hours in the refrigerator, to allow the flavors to deepen and the custard to set properly.

Tips:

• Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture and flavor.
• For a richer custard, consider using whole milk in place of half & half.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (approximate):

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Sodium: 200mg

Old Fashioned Banana Pudding is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Its layers of creamy custard, fresh bananas, and crisp vanilla wafers, topped with a fluffy meringue, create a symphony of textures and tastes that are sure to delight. Whether it's for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this pudding is a comforting dessert that brings joy and warmth to any table.