Banana Pudding Recipe – Creamy, Classic Dessert You’ll Love

Banana pudding is one of those timeless desserts that brings comfort, nostalgia, and pure joy with every spoonful. Whether it’s layered in a glass dish for Sunday dinner or served in individual cups at a family barbecue, this Southern classic has made its way into hearts and kitchens across the country. Sweet slices of banana, creamy pudding, soft vanilla wafers, and fluffy whipped topping come together in a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

Its simplicity is part of what makes banana pudding so lovable. You don’t need fancy techniques or expensive ingredients to make it work. Yet, with the right balance of flavors and textures, it can easily compete with gourmet treats. What started as a simple custard and banana dish has now evolved into a widely adapted recipe that includes different types of pudding, cookies, toppings, and even dairy alternatives.

Many home cooks return to this dish for its ease and versatility. It is also a great make-ahead dessert for parties or potlucks. The longer it chills, the more the flavors meld and the wafers soften into cake-like bites. If you’ve never made banana pudding from scratch or want to try a more refined version, now is the perfect time to dive into this creamy delight.

Let’s break it down so you can create your own perfect version of this beloved dessert.

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Ingredients Needed

The following table includes all ingredients required to make a classic banana pudding, along with an estimated calorie count per serving. This recipe serves approximately eight people.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (Approx.)
Ripe Bananas	4 medium	420
Whole Milk	2 cups	300
Heavy Whipping Cream	1 cup	400
Granulated Sugar	¾ cup	580
Cornstarch	3 tablespoons	90
Egg Yolks	4 large	220
Unsalted Butter	2 tablespoons	200
Vanilla Extract	2 teaspoons	24
Vanilla Wafers	40 pieces	640
Whipped Topping (optional)	1 cup	150

Total Calories per Serving (approx.): 378

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by slicing the bananas into thin, even rounds. Set them aside. Separate the egg yolks from the whites and place them in a medium bowl.

Step 2: Make the Custard Base

In a saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch. Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk until smooth. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once the mixture starts to warm, temper the egg yolks by adding a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan.

Step 3: Cook the Custard

Continue cooking the custard over medium heat until it thickens. This should take about 7 to 10 minutes. Stir constantly to avoid lumps or burning. Once it has reached a thick pudding-like consistency, remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Allow it to cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

In a large glass or ceramic dish, begin with a layer of vanilla wafers. Add a layer of banana slices over the wafers, followed by a layer of warm custard. Repeat this process until you’ve used all the ingredients, ending with a final layer of custard.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For best results, let it chill overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cookies to soften.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Before serving, top with a generous layer of whipped topping or freshly whipped cream. You can also garnish with crushed wafers or banana slices for presentation.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Banana pudding is endlessly versatile. Here are some easy ways to make it your own:

1. Use Different Cookies: Swap vanilla wafers with shortbread cookies, graham crackers, or even chocolate wafers for a twist in flavor.

2. Add a Flavor Boost: Try adding a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of banana liqueur for more depth.

3. Make it Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk and dairy-free whipped topping to make it suitable for those avoiding dairy.

4. Play with the Texture: Add a layer of crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts between layers for a crunch.

5. Go Individual: Layer the pudding in mason jars or clear cups for portioned servings that are great for parties.

6. Try Instant Pudding Mix: For an ultra-quick version, use instant vanilla or banana pudding mix with cold milk instead of making custard from scratch.

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Nutritional Information

While banana pudding is undoubtedly a treat, it’s still helpful to know what you’re consuming. Here’s a general breakdown per serving based on the classic recipe:

• Calories: 378
• Fat: 18 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Cholesterol: 120 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 52 grams
• Sugar: 35 grams
• Protein: 6 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams

This dessert is best enjoyed in moderation, but with the right substitutions, it can be made lighter without compromising flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Banana pudding is best served chilled. It pairs well with a variety of main dishes, especially Southern comfort food like fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or roasted turkey. Serve it in a large trifle dish for family gatherings, or prepare individual portions for picnics and parties.

You can also drizzle it with caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. If you’re serving guests, a sprig of mint or a twist of lemon zest on top makes for an elegant presentation.

For holidays and special occasions, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or peanut butter cream to make it even more festive.

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FAQs About Banana Pudding

Can banana pudding be made ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours of chilling. Make it the day before for best flavor and texture.

How long does banana pudding last in the fridge?
Banana pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. After that, the bananas may begin to brown and the texture can become too soft.

Can I freeze banana pudding?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture of the custard and bananas changes too much after thawing.

Is it possible to use instant pudding?
Absolutely. Instant pudding is a great shortcut and still produces a delicious result. Just mix it with cold milk and layer as usual.

What type of bananas work best?
Use bananas that are ripe but firm. Overripe bananas may turn mushy and overpower the pudding with sweetness.

How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
Lightly toss the banana slices in lemon juice before layering. This helps to slow oxidation without affecting the flavor too much.

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Conclusion

Banana pudding offers everything a dessert should be—creamy, sweet, comforting, and easy to prepare. Its humble ingredients and rich flavor make it a standout at any gathering or just a quiet night in. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or experiment with your own twist, banana pudding is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that always hits the spot.