Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe

This rich and creamy homemade banana pudding features layers of sweet vanilla custard, perfectly ripe bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers. Simple, delicious, and quick to prepare, it’s the perfect dessert for family gatherings, picnics, holidays, or just a sweet treat!

Ingredients:

¾ cup sugar
¼ cup flour
¼ teaspoon salt

3 cups milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 box vanilla wafers (about 8 oz)
4 ripe bananas, sliced

Instructions:

In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually add the milk and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add a small amount of the hot mixture into the eggs, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Once combined, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and return it to the heat.

Cook until the pudding reaches a gentle boil and thickens, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let the pudding cool for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In an ungreased 8×8-inch pan, layer about 25 vanilla wafers on the bottom, followed by half of the banana slices.
Pour half of the pudding mixture over the bananas and wafers. Repeat the layers with the remaining wafers, bananas, and pudding.

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Before serving, crush the remaining vanilla wafers and sprinkle on top of the pudding for added texture. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Banana Pudding:

Use Nilla Wafers for the best flavor.
Make sure to let the pudding chill overnight for the best taste and texture.
If you prefer, you can serve the pudding warm, but chilling allows the flavors to meld together.

To prevent browning, add fresh banana slices just before serving.
Feel free to top the pudding with whipped cream or a meringue for extra flair.

Storage:
Store leftover banana pudding in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed.

This homemade banana pudding is a true Southern classic, offering a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy in every bite. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dessert or a special occasion, it’s sure to please everyone!