Best Banana Pudding

1. Make the Pudding

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. This ensures the cornstarch distributes evenly without clumping.
2. Add Milk and Egg Yolks: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Add the egg yolks and whisk until combined.
3. Cook the Pudding: Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it begins to bubble and thicken (about 6-8 minutes). Once it reaches a thick, custard-like consistency, remove it from the heat.
4. Finish with Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Let the pudding cool slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.

2. Prepare the Whipped Cream

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside in the refrigerator.

3. Assemble the Banana Pudding

1. First Layer: Spread a thin layer of pudding on the bottom of your baking dish. Top with a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of banana slices.
2. Second Layer: Spread half of the pudding over the bananas, smoothing it with a spatula. Add another layer of wafers and bananas.
3. Final Layer: Spread the remaining pudding on top, followed by the whipped cream. Smooth the whipped cream over the entire surface.

4. Chill and Garnish

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften into a cake-like texture.
2. Before serving, garnish with crushed vanilla wafers, whole cookies, or a sprinkle of banana slices for an elegant touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled in individual bowls or scooped directly from the dish.
• For a fancier presentation, layer the pudding, bananas, and wafers in clear glasses or a trifle dish.

Tips for the Perfect Banana Pudding

1. Choose Ripe Bananas: Use bananas that are just ripe (yellow with a few brown specks). Overripe bananas can get too mushy.
2. Homemade vs. Instant Pudding: While instant pudding is quicker, homemade pudding provides a richer, creamier flavor that’s worth the effort.
3. Cookie Alternatives: Swap out vanilla wafers for graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even biscoff for a unique twist.
4. Add Depth: A splash of bourbon or rum in the pudding can elevate the flavor for an adult-friendly version.

Why It’s the Best

This Best Banana Pudding strikes the perfect balance between creamy, sweet, and fruity. The homemade pudding adds richness, while the whipped cream keeps it light and fluffy. Every bite delivers layers of flavor and texture, making it the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert.

Dig in and watch it disappear at your next gathering!