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Old Fashioned Banana Pudding
Introduction: Banana pudding is a beloved dessert that carries a sense of nostalgia for many, particularly in Southern kitchens. This creamy, comforting treat is made with a perfect combination of ripe bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, and crispy vanilla wafers, layered together and chilled to perfection. It’s a dessert that has been passed down for generations, often bringing families together during holidays, celebrations, or simple Sunday dinners. Old Fashioned Banana Pudding is one of those classics that never goes out of style. Whether it’s served at a potluck or a quiet dinner at home, it always delights the taste buds and warms the soul.
History: Banana pudding is often associated with Southern cuisine, but its origins trace back much earlier. Early recipes for banana pudding began appearing in cookbooks during the late 19th century. The combination of bananas with custard and other sweet ingredients made it an easy and affordable dessert, especially when bananas became more widely available in the U.S. after the 1870s. The version we know today—with vanilla wafers and whipped cream—gained popularity in the mid-20th century, making it a staple at family gatherings and picnics. Over time, this dessert has evolved into many variations, but the original “Old Fashioned” style remains a cherished classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups whole milk (or 1% for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)
- 1 cup whipped cream (optional for topping)
Instructions:
Method 1: Preparing the Pudding Base
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, regular milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir these ingredients until the cornstarch has dissolved, making a smooth mixture.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a whisk or spatula, ensuring that nothing sticks to the bottom. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble—this should take about 5 to 8 minutes.
- Temper the Egg Yolks: While the milk mixture is heating up, separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks lightly. Once the milk mixture is hot but not boiling, take a spoonful of it and slowly add it to the egg yolks while whisking vigorously. This helps temper the yolks so they don’t cook too quickly. Gradually add another spoonful of hot liquid to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
- Incorporate the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, until the pudding is smooth and thick.
- Add Flavor: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The pudding should have a rich, creamy consistency. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
Method 2: Assembling the Banana Pudding
- Layer the Pudding: In a large trifle dish or any deep serving dish, start by layering the bottom with a single layer of vanilla wafers.
- Add Bananas: Next, add a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers, ensuring each banana slice touches the wafers.
- Pour the Pudding: Pour a generous layer of the warm pudding mixture over the bananas and wafers, covering them completely. Repeat the layering process, adding more wafers, bananas, and pudding, until all ingredients are used. Be sure to finish with a layer of pudding on top.
- Chill the Dessert: Refrigerate the banana pudding for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
Method 3: Serving the Banana Pudding
- Optional Topping: Before serving, top the chilled banana pudding with whipped cream for extra richness and texture. You can also add additional vanilla wafer crumbs or even a few extra banana slices for decoration.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled in individual bowls or scoops. Enjoy the layers of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers with every bite.
Tips & Variations:
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, swap half of the whole milk for almond milk or use low-fat condensed milk. You can also omit the whipped cream topping.
- Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding base for a warm, spiced flavor. Some people also love adding a few drops of banana extract to intensify the banana flavor.
- Vegan Version: For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk and a vegan condensed milk substitute. Replace the egg yolks with cornstarch to thicken the pudding.
Conclusion:
Old Fashioned Banana Pudding is a timeless dessert that brings together the best of sweet, creamy, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, it’s sure to delight everyone who tastes it. The layers of creamy pudding, ripe bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers create a dessert that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. And with its rich history in Southern cuisine, it’s easy to see why banana pudding continues to be a favorite treat for all generations.
For the Lovers of Classic Desserts:
If you’re a lover of traditional, comforting desserts, this recipe is a must-try. Banana pudding isn’t just food—it’s a memory in a bowl, often bringing back images of family picnics, summer afternoons, and shared moments over dessert. It’s a simple, unpretentious dessert that speaks to the heart, and it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying it after a meal or as a late-night treat, it’s the kind of dessert that makes everyone feel a little bit closer, a little bit sweeter.