Southern Banana Pudding is a classic comfort dessert, featuring layers of crunchy vanilla wafers, ripe banana slices, and creamy homemade vanilla pudding. This rich and nostalgic treat is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or whenever you crave something sweet and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Southern flavor – A rich and creamy homemade pudding with layers of bananas and vanilla wafers.
- Perfectly balanced texture – The crunch of the cookies, the smooth pudding, and the soft bananas create the best combination.
- Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- Crowd-pleaser – A nostalgic dessert loved by both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Produce:
- 3 ripe bananas (sliced)
Refrigerated:
- 4 egg yolks
Baking & Spices:
- 8 tbsp flour
- 1 dash salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Snacks:
- 1 box vanilla wafers
Dairy:
- 4 cups milk
Directions
1. Prepare the Homemade Vanilla Pudding
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Gradually stir in the milk, making sure the mixture is smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
- In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks.
- Slowly temper the eggs by adding a few spoonfuls of the hot pudding mixture to the yolks, whisking continuously.
- Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Assemble the Layers
- In a 9×9-inch baking dish, place a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
- Add a layer of banana slices on top of the wafers.
- Pour half of the warm vanilla pudding over the bananas.
- Repeat with another layer of wafers, bananas, and pudding.
- Finish with a final layer of vanilla wafers on top.
3. Chill and Serve
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours for the flavors to meld.
- Serve as is or with whipped cream on top for an extra treat.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 9
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours (optional but recommended)
- Total Time: 30 minutes (without chilling)
Variations
- Meringue Topping: Use the leftover egg whites to make a light and fluffy meringue topping.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of chocolate pudding for a chocolate-banana combo.
- Caramel Banana Pudding: Drizzle caramel sauce between the layers for extra richness.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Top with homemade whipped cream and extra cookie crumbles.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as bananas may become mushy and the pudding may separate.
- Reheating: Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature—no need to reheat!
FAQs
Can I use instant pudding instead of homemade?
Yes! If you’re short on time, vanilla instant pudding works as a quick alternative.
How do I keep bananas from turning brown?
Toss banana slices in lemon juice before layering to slow oxidation.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
What’s the best way to layer banana pudding?
Start with wafers, then bananas, then pudding—repeat twice for the best balance.
Can I use whole eggs instead of just yolks?
No, using only yolks makes the pudding richer and smoother.
Can I use different cookies instead of vanilla wafers?
Yes! Try graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or biscoff cookies for a different twist.
How do I make this pudding thicker?
If your pudding is too thin, cook it a little longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour.
Is banana pudding served warm or cold?
It can be served warm, but it tastes best chilled after a few hours.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use almond milk or coconut milk and a dairy-free butter alternative.
What can I top banana pudding with?
Try whipped cream, meringue, crushed vanilla wafers, or caramel drizzle for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
Southern Banana Pudding is a timeless, comforting dessert that brings together rich homemade vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. Whether for a family gathering or a simple treat, this classic recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a bite of Southern tradition!
Print
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Banana Pudding is a classic, comforting dessert featuring layers of vanilla wafers, fresh banana slices, and rich homemade vanilla pudding. With a smooth, creamy texture and the perfect balance of sweet and nostalgic flavors, this from-scratch banana pudding is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 4 cups milk
- 8 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 dash salt
- 4 egg yolks, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafers
Instructions
1. Make the Vanilla Pudding:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook until the mixture thickens, about 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Slowly temper the beaten egg yolks by adding a small amount of hot pudding while whisking.
- Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring continuously.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
2. Assemble the Banana Pudding:
- In a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom.
- Add a layer of banana slices on top of the wafers.
- Pour a layer of warm vanilla pudding over the bananas.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a pudding layer on top.
3. Chill & Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, optionally topped with whipped cream or crushed vanilla wafers for extra texture!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Make it extra special by adding a meringue topping and broiling until golden brown.
- Best served within 24 hours, as bananas may darken over time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- chill time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Southern Classic
- Method: Stovetop, Chilled
- Cuisine: Southern, American
