Homemade old fashioned banana pudding is a classic dessert that evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort. With its creamy texture, luscious layers of vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and velvety custard, this timeless treat has been a staple in American households for generations. While store-bought versions are readily available, nothing beats the indulgent delight of homemade old-fashioned banana pudding.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating this beloved dessert, helping you recreate the magic of a bygone era in your own kitchen.
Ingredients you will need include…
To make homemade old-fashioned banana pudding, you will need the following ingredients:
4-5 ripe bananas
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 box of vanilla wafers
Making Homemade old fashioned banana pudding step by step
1. In a saucepan, combine the flour, sugar, salt, milk, egg yolks, and vanilla.
2. Stirring frequently will help it not to stick to the pan as it cooks on medium until thick.
3. The thickening process will take about 15 to 20 minutes.
4. On the bottom of the dish, arrange the slices of banana and the cookies.
5. Over the top, spread out half of the custard mixture.
6. Repetition is required for the second layer of cookies, bananas and custard.
7. A few more vanilla wafers should be crushed and sprinkled on top as the final step, and serve.
Can I use instant pudding mix for banana pudding?
Yes, you can use instant pudding mix to make banana pudding. Instant pudding mixes are convenient and can help simplify the process of making the custard for banana pudding.
To use instant pudding mix, follow the instructions on the packaging for making the pudding. Typically, you would whisk the instant pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens. Then, you can incorporate sliced bananas and layer the pudding with cookies as desired.
How do I store leftover banana pudding?
If you have leftover banana pudding, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its freshness and prevent it from spoiling. Here’s how you can store leftover banana pudding:
Refrigeration: Banana pudding should be refrigerated to keep it cool and safe for consumption. Place the leftover pudding in an airtight container or cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Make sure the container is clean and food-safe.
Chilled storage: Store the banana pudding in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). This helps to inhibit bacterial growth and maintain the quality of the dessert.
Timing: Ideally, consume the leftover banana pudding within 2-3 days. While it may still be safe to eat beyond that timeframe, the texture and flavor may begin to deteriorate.
How to Keep Bananas From Turning Brown in Banana Pudding?
Bananas in the Nilla Wafer banana pudding typically become a mild shade of brown after being sliced. They certainly seem unappealing, but they’re still entirely safe to eat.
Using bananas that are ripe but not yet brown helps keep the slices from turning brown.
Additionally, adding whipped cream to the top of your homemade banana custard is beneficial. The bananas are contained and kept from being exposed to air, which would otherwise cause them to become brown.
Lemon juice shouldn’t be added, both for flavour reasons and because it can cause the pudding to start curdling.
Can banana pudding be made the night before?
Yes, most people do prefer to wait for food to cool off in the refrigerator rather than eating it right after cooking.
Banana Pudding is a great dessert to bring to picnics, barbecues, and potlucks because it can be made ahead of time.
Nutritional value of homemade old fashioned banana pudding
The nutritional value of banana pudding can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. However, here is a general overview of the nutritional components typically found in a serving of banana pudding:
Calories: A standard serving of banana pudding, which is approximately 1 cup (about 220 grams), can contain around 350-400 calories. Keep in mind that portion sizes may vary depending on the recipe and personal preferences.
Carbohydrates: Banana pudding is relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily due to the presence of sugar, flour, and cookies. A serving of banana pudding can provide around 50-60 grams of carbohydrates.
Protein: Banana pudding is not a significant source of protein. A serving typically contains around 4-6 grams of protein, mainly derived from the milk and eggs used in the custard.
Fat: The fat content in banana pudding primarily comes from the milk and eggs used in the custard. A serving of banana pudding can contain approximately 10-15 grams of fat.
Fiber: Banana pudding does not typically provide a significant amount of dietary fiber unless additional ingredients like oats or nuts are included in the recipe. A serving may contain 1-2 grams of fiber.
Vitamins and Minerals: Banana pudding can provide some essential vitamins and minerals. Bananas, the primary ingredient, are a good source of potassium and vitamin C. The custard may contribute to the intake of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin A, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used.
It’s important to note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. If you have dietary concerns or specific nutritional needs, it’s advisable to calculate the nutritional content based on the recipe and serving size you are using or consult a registered dietitian for more accurate information.
Homemade old fashioned banana pudding | Easy homemade banana pudding recipe
Ingredients
For making homemade old fashioned banana pudding
- 4-5 Piece Banana
- 2 Cup Whole milk
- 1 Cup Heavy cream
- ¾ Cup Granulated sugar
- ¼ Cup All-purpose flour
- ¼ Tbsp Salt
- 4 Piece Egg yolks
- 2 Tbsp Vanilla extract
- 1 Box Vanilla wafers
Instructions
Making Homemade old fashioned banana pudding step by step
- In a saucepan, combine the flour, sugar, salt, milk, egg yolks, and vanilla.
- Stirring frequently will help it not to stick to the pan as it cooks on medium until thick.
- The thickening process will take about 15 to 20 minutes.
- On the bottom of the dish, arrange the slices of banana and the cookies.
- Over the top, spread out half of the custard mixture.
- Repetition is required for the second layer of cookies, bananas and custard.
- A few more vanilla wafers should be crushed and sprinkled on top as the final step.
Video
Notes
- Use ripe bananas: The key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your banana pudding is to use ripe bananas. Look for bananas that have a few brown spots on the skin. Ripe bananas have a sweeter taste and are easier to slice without turning mushy.
- Layer the wafers strategically: To prevent the vanilla wafers from becoming overly soggy, it's essential to layer them strategically. Place a layer of wafers at the bottom of your dish, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, and then pour the custard over them. Repeat the process, making sure to end with a layer of custard on top. This will help maintain the texture and prevent the wafers from becoming too soft.
- Chill the custard thoroughly: For the best consistency and flavor, allow the custard to chill thoroughly before assembling the pudding. This will ensure a velvety smooth texture and enable the flavors to meld together. Chilling for at least 4 hours, or even overnight, is recommended.
- Seal the custard with plastic wrap: When chilling the custard, make sure to place plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent skin from forming. This will keep the custard smooth and creamy.
- Get creative with presentation: While traditional banana pudding is often assembled in a trifle dish, don't be afraid to get creative with your presentation. You can make individual servings in Mason jars, parfait glasses, or even dessert bowls. Additionally, garnish the top of the pudding with a few fresh banana slices and crushed wafers for an attractive presentation.
