# **Salted Caramel Banana Pudding: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert**
## **Introduction**
Salted Caramel Banana Pudding is a decadent twist on the classic Southern dessert that combines creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, crunchy vanilla cookies, and a rich, salty-sweet caramel sauce. This dessert is layered to perfection, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite. Whether served at family gatherings, potlucks, or as a personal indulgence, this pudding is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
## **History of Banana Pudding**
Banana pudding has deep roots in Southern American cuisine, evolving from the English trifle and gaining popularity in the 19th century with the introduction of vanilla wafers. The addition of salted caramel is a modern twist that enhances the traditional recipe with a sophisticated balance of sweet and salty flavors.
## **Benefits**
– **Rich in Potassium** (from bananas)
– **Energy-Boosting** (from natural sugars)
– **Comforting & Satisfying** (perfect for dessert lovers)
– **Customizable** (can be made with different cookies or toppings)
## **Ingredients**
### **For the Pudding:**
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– ¼ cup cornstarch
– ¼ tsp salt
– 4 large egg yolks
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
### **For the Salted Caramel Sauce:**
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp sea salt
### **For the Layers:**
– 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafers (or shortbread cookies)
– Whipped cream (for topping)
– Extra caramel drizzle (optional)
## **Instructions**
### **Step 1: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce**
1. In a medium saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally until melted.
2. Once amber-colored, add butter and whisk until fully combined.
3. Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously.
4. Remove from heat, add sea salt, and let cool slightly.
### **Step 2: Prepare the Pudding**
1. In a saucepan, heat milk and cream over medium heat until warm (do not boil).
2. In a bowl, whisk sugar, cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook on medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and butter. Let cool slightly.
### **Step 3: Assemble the Pudding**
1. In a trifle dish or individual cups, layer:
– Vanilla wafers
– Banana slices
– Pudding
– Drizzle of salted caramel
2. Repeat layers, ending with pudding.
3. Chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
### **Step 4: Serve**
– Top with whipped cream, extra caramel, and crushed cookies.
– Enjoy chilled!
## **Nutritional Information (Per Serving)**
– Calories: ~450 kcal
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Protein: 5g
– Fat: 22g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugar: 40g
## **Conclusion**
Salted Caramel Banana Pudding is the ultimate dessert for those who love a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Its creamy, crunchy, and caramel-infused layers make it irresistible. Whether you’re a longtime banana pudding lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
### **For the Lovers of This Dessert:**
– Try adding toasted pecans for extra crunch.
– Use chocolate cookies for a different twist.
– Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
**Grab a spoon and dig into this heavenly dessert!** 🍌🍮✨