Banana Pudding from Scratch

Homemade Banana Pudding is a classic dessert. You can layer the pudding with banana slices and sometimes Nilla wafer cookies if you choose. This pudding has a true banana flavor and is so good that it creates smiles.

The family will love it and beg for more. Of course, you have to top the homemade pudding with whipped topping.

When you come to a recipe that says ‘from scratch’ it can seem intimidating. Do not feel that way with this recipe. It is delightfully easy, delicious, and you will want to make it time and again just for the flavor.

This pudding makes dessert taste even better.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You likely have everything you need in the fridge and pantry, so there’s no need to head to the grocery store in most cases.

It’s super classic. While modern recipes add in ingredients to elevate it, this recipe is super simple. What makes this the best banana pudding from scratch recipe is that it’s a tried-and-true choice.

It’s an easy banana pudding from scratch for beginners. There are no complicated steps involved, which allows just about anyone to give it a try.

This quick banana pudding from scratch recipe is one you can whip up in a matter of minutes or make in advance.

Variations

There are not many variations for ‘made from scratch’ pudding.

• Skip the wafer cookies and add pound cake chunks instead. It’s going to have a very different feel and texture to give it something extra.
• You could switch to a different pudding flavor, such as going with a white chocolate pudding mix for an unexpected flavor profile.
• Use instant banana cream pudding mix instead. This will create a more notable banana flavor.
• Fold in whipped topping to elevate the banana pudding. This will lighten the texture a bit.

Ingredients:

• Granulated sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Heavy whipping cream
• Pinch of salt
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Vanilla wafers
• Bananas

How to make Banana Pudding from Scratch:

Step 1. Add the sugar, flour, milk, whipping cream, and salt to a saucepan over medium heat, and whisk well to combine.

Adding the sugar.

Adding the flour.

Adding the milk.

Step 2. Continue to cook the mixture until it has thickened.

Step 3. Whisk together the egg yolks and add a large spoonful of the heated mixture to them, stirring quickly.

Step 4. Once tempered, add the egg yolks slowly to the heated mixture, whisking constantly. Cook another 3-5 minutes and then remove from the heat.

Step 5. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 6. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step 7. Line the bottom of a well-greased 9×9 baking dish with a layer of vanilla wafers.

Step 8. Place a layer of sliced bananas on top of the vanilla wafers.

Then, add and smooth half of the custard mixture over the top of the bananas.

Step 10. Repeat with another layer of cookies, the banana slices, and the remaining custard mixture.

Step 11. Mix together the egg whites in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form.

Step 12. Add in the remaining sugar, and continue to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks have formed.

Step 13. Layer the meringue mixture over the pudding.

Then, place it into the oven until the meringue has browned.

Step 14. Serve immediately or chill if desired.

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Tips for Success

This is a quick banana pudding from scratch recipe, and that’s the point of it. It’s authentic and simple. However, you can change it up, add in other fruits.

Keep in mind that if you rush to combine the eggs, you could end up with scrambled pieces. To avoid that, take the time to temper the eggs carefully.

Storage and Reheating

How is the Banana pudding stored?

Since this is a dairy ingredient item, you do need to store the pudding in the refrigerator. You can cover it tightly or place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can the pudding be frozen?

It is not advisable to freeze the pudding. There tends to be separation when the pudding thaws.

Can I reheat the pudding?

Pudding is not generally reheated. However, there are many who do like warm pudding. You can reheat the pudding for 30 seconds in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Top it with crushed wafers added just before serving to give it a crunch. This is a rich and decadent dessert that doesn’t require serving it with anything else, but you could add some ice cream as a side. Add fresh whipped cream to it if you’re looking for even more volume.

FAQs

Is this recipe any different than most other Banana Pudding recipes?

Not really, as this one is a classic. It has been around for many generations and has stood the test of time. Not all recipes can do that. The flavor is wonderful, and the ease of making this is even better.

Can I use pre-made whipped cream?

It’s always a good idea to use freshly made whipped cream, especially when you’re looking for homemade banana pudding from scratch ideas.

Can I make this a healthy banana pudding from scratch version?

It’s important to stick close to the recipe to get the proper consistency of your pudding. However, you may be able to use a sugar-substitution product. You might also be able to switch to a low-carb wafer-like cookie.

Notes

Make sure you give this recipe time to set up. It’s really a simple banana pudding from scratch meal that works well if you give it time to set. In other words, patience is a must here!

Let the kids help, too. For example, encourage them to cut the bananas or create the layers. That makes this a family friendly banana pudding from scratch choice.

If you’re looking for some other fun ways to use up bananas, check out these recipes.

• Banana Pancakes are one of the best ways to start the day.
• Banana Split Pudding is another dessert that’s crave-worthy.