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Banana pudding has been a favorite in America for over a century. The first time it was mentioned was in the New York Times in 1878. Over time, it has changed, with different versions popping up all over the country.
The first banana pudding recipe was in Good Housekeeping in 1888. It used bananas, sugar, and eggs. It was a hit at family and social events. Vanilla wafers soon became a key part of the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding is a classic American dessert with a high recipe approval rating.
- Each serving contains approximately 475 calories and 216 mg of sodium.
- The recipe is suitable for gatherings or family meals, yielding 6 servings.
Ingredients
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Here’s what you need:
Vanilla Wafers: Adds crunch and sweetness.
Ripe Bananas: Makes it sweet and fresh.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the custard.
Eggs: Makes it rich and thick.
Whole Milk: Makes the custard creamy.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the banana flavor.
Step by Step Instructions
To make the recipe, follow these easy steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
In a medium saucepan, mix sugar, flour, and egg yolks. Slowly add milk, whisking well to avoid lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
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Step 2: Assemble the Dessert
In a big serving dish, start with a layer of Nilla wafers. Next, add sliced bananas. Pour the custard over the bananas and smooth it out.
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Step 3: Add the Meringue Topping
In another bowl, whip egg whites until stiff. Spread this meringue over the pudding. Bake at 375 degrees F for 7-10 minutes, until golden. Serve & Enjoy.
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Tips for Creating the Ultimate Banana Pudding
Use Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are ripe but not too mushy. They add sweetness and creaminess.
Layer Thoughtfully: Layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding evenly. This ensures a perfect mix of flavors and textures.
Chill for Optimal Flavor: Chill the pudding for at least 4 hours or overnight. It lets the flavors blend and the wafers soften.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Underripe Bananas: Green or underripe bananas are not sweet enough. They make the pudding taste bad.
Not Cooking the Custard Properly: If making custard, make sure it thickens well. Undercooked custard makes the pudding runny.
Skipping the Chill Time: Don’t serve the pudding too soon. It needs time to combine flavors and get the right consistency.
Overloading with Bananas: Too many bananas make the pudding mushy. Keep the balance right.
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Iconic Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk creamy custard base
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar sweetens the custard
- 2 large eggs thickens and enriches the custard
- 3 ripe bananas fresh sweetness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances the flavor
- 1 box vanilla wafers adds crunch and texture
Instructions
- In a saucepan, mix sugar and egg yolks. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened.
- In a serving dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and warm custard. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue over the pudding and bake at 375°F for 7–10 minutes, until golden brown.
- Cool slightly, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Video
Notes
FAQ’s
What creative twists can be tried on the classic banana pudding recipe?
You can add chocolate or peanut butter, use seasonal fruits, or make it gluten-free and dairy-free. These changes can give the classic recipe a new taste and texture.
How can banana pudding be served to create the best presentation?
Use the right dishware, make it look beautiful, pair it with drinks, and make it the star of the dessert table. These tips will help you serve banana pudding in style.
How can banana pudding be made ahead of time for special events?
We’ll give you tips on planning for events, storing pre-made pudding, and reheating it. This way, you can make banana pudding ahead of time without losing its quality or taste.
What are the popular variations of banana pudding across the United States?
We’ll look at popular versions, like Southern-style banana pudding and Northern twists. You’ll get a new and tasty take on the classic banana pudding recipe.
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