Banana Vanilla Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding

1. Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until it just starts to simmer (don’t let it boil), then remove from the heat.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Whisk the Eggs: In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually whisk the dry sugar mixture into the egg yolks.
4. Temper the Eggs: Slowly add the warm milk mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Once combined, pour the mixture back into the saucepan.
5. Cook the Pudding: Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil (about 5-7 minutes). The pudding should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
6. Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
7. Cool the Pudding: Pour the pudding into a bowl and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours until chilled.

Step 2: Assemble the Banana Vanilla Pudding

1. Layer the Bananas and Cookies: In a large serving dish or individual dessert cups, layer vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom, followed by a layer of banana slices.
2. Add Pudding: Spoon a layer of chilled vanilla pudding over the bananas and cookies.
3. Repeat Layers: Continue layering cookies, banana slices, and pudding until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a layer of pudding.
4. Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. Top with Whipped Cream: If desired, top with freshly whipped cream or even extra vanilla wafers just before serving.
2. Garnish: Add a few banana slices or crushed vanilla wafers on top for decoration.

Tips for Success:

• Fresh Bananas: Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture and flavor. Overripe bananas may turn mushy in the pudding.
• Make Ahead: This dessert can be made a day ahead, which allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to develop beautifully.
• Whipped Cream Alternative: If you prefer, you can top the pudding with a layer of whipped cream just before serving for an extra light and fluffy texture.

Conclusion

This creamy banana vanilla pudding is the perfect blend of sweetness and texture, with layers of soft bananas, crunchy wafers, and rich vanilla pudding. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to be a hit for any occasion!