Step 1: Prepare the Homemade Vanilla Puddin
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and gradually pour in the milk, mixing until smooth.
2. Cook the Pudding:
Place the saucepan over medium heat, and pour in the egg yolk and milk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent clumps. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
3. Add Butter and Vanilla:
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Set the pudding aside to cool slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
Step 2: Assemble the Banana Pudding
1. Layer the Wafers and Bananas:
In a large serving dish (about 9×13 inches or a deep trifle bowl), arrange a single layer of Nilla wafers across the bottom. Top with a layer of banana slices, followed by a layer of pudding.
2. Repeat the Layers:
Continue layering wafers, bananas, and pudding until you reach the top of the dish, ending with a final layer of pudding. Be generous with each layer so every spoonful is packed with flavor!
Tip: Reserve a few wafers for crumbling over the top as garnish.
Step 3: Make the Whipped Topping
1. Whip the Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, pour the chilled heavy cream. Use an electric mixer to beat the cream on medium-high speed until it begins to thicken.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla:
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, or the cream will become too stiff.
3. Spread the Topping:
Gently spread the whipped cream over the top layer of pudding, creating soft swirls with the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Garnish and Chill
1. Garnish with Crumbled Wafers:
For a finishing touch, crumble a few extra wafers over the top of the whipped cream layer.
2. Chill the Pudding:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. The chilling time allows the flavors to meld, and the wafers will soften, creating the perfect texture.
Tips for Success
Tip 1: Use Ripe Bananas
For the best flavor, make sure your bananas are ripe with a few brown spots. These bananas are sweeter and softer, adding a more authentic banana flavor to the dessert.
Tip 2: Make Ahead
Banana pudding is best after chilling, so making it a day ahead can enhance the flavors and texture. Just keep it well-covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Tip 3: Try Adding Cream Cheese
For an extra-rich pudding layer, you can fold 4 ounces of softened cream cheese into the pudding after it’s cooked. It adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Banana Pudding is a dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. The homemade vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, crispy wafers, and light whipped topping make each spoonful a delightful treat. Simple, comforting, and irresistibly delicious, this banana pudding is sure to become a favorite dessert for any occasion!