OLD-FASHIONED BANANA PUDDING

Savor the Creamy Comfort of Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding

Step back into the warmth of classic Southern kitchens with this Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding recipe, a timeless dessert layered with silky vanilla custard, ripe bananas, and crisp vanilla wafers. It’s a comforting, nostalgic treat that brings back sweet memories of family gatherings and Sunday suppers.

Whether served warm or chilled, this pudding delivers that homemade charm every spoonful deserves. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or quiet evenings at home, Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding remains an unforgettable dessert that stands the test of time.

Classic Comfort in Every Bite: Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding

This Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding combines homemade custard with tender banana slices and golden wafers to create layers of sweetness and creaminess. Each bite melts in your mouth, making it one of the most beloved desserts across generations. If you enjoy desserts with comforting textures, try pairing it with Peaches and Cream Cake or Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding.

The magic lies in the silky custard cooked slowly to perfection and crowned with a light meringue topping that’s baked until beautifully golden. It’s not just dessert—it’s pure Southern hospitality in a dish.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding

1. Even Layers Matter: Layer your wafers and bananas evenly to ensure every serving gets the perfect combination of textures.
2. Slow and Steady Cooking: Stir the custard continuously to avoid scorching and achieve a creamy, lump-free texture.
3. Fresh Bananas: Choose ripe yet firm bananas—they hold their shape and flavor beautifully.
4. Golden Meringue: Bake the meringue until lightly browned for a delicate, marshmallow-like finish.
5. Chill Before Serving: Letting the pudding cool helps the flavors blend, giving you that signature old-fashioned richness.

Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding Recipe

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Equipment: Medium saucepan, whisk, 2-quart casserole dish, electric mixer

Relive the sweet memories of childhood with this Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding. It’s a dessert made for sharing, but you may find it hard to part with your bowl.

Ingredients

• 4 bananas, peeled and sliced
• Vanilla wafers (about 50 wafers)
• ¾ cup sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup regular or 2% milk
• 1½ cups evaporated milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring

Meringue for Pudding:

• 4 egg whites
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring

Directions

1. Prepare the Bananas and Wafers: Slice the bananas into rounds and sprinkle with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. In a 2-quart casserole dish, layer vanilla wafers and banana slices alternately. Arrange about 10 wafers along the sides for a pretty finish.
2. Cook the Custard: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, salt, flour, egg yolks, regular milk, and evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 7–8 minutes until thickened. The custard will easily burn, so keep stirring. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla flavoring. Pour the hot custard evenly over the layered wafers and bananas.
3. Prepare the Meringue: In a clean bowl, beat egg whites on high until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until glossy. Spread the meringue over the warm pudding, ensuring it touches the edges of the dish to seal.
4. Bake the Pudding: Place in a preheated 350°F oven until the meringue is lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Alternatively, use your oven broiler for quicker browning.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm for a cozy feel or refrigerate it for a cool, creamy delight.

Homemade Charm and Serving Ideas

Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding is best enjoyed as a stand-alone dessert, but it pairs beautifully with buttery biscuits or fresh coffee. You can also serve it alongside Homemade Bakery French Bread for a heartwarming brunch or complement it with Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding from Scratch for a delightful pudding comparison.

For gatherings, prepare it a day ahead—the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more indulgent.

More Sweet Inspirations

If you adore comforting desserts, explore more Southern-style classics like No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake or Pineapple Dream Dessert. These treats share that same homemade love and old-fashioned charm that define timeless comfort food.

Ready to Relish!

Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding remains a dessert that speaks straight to the heart. Each spoonful offers layers of nostalgia and sweetness, echoing the warmth of family kitchens. Whether for a special occasion or a simple craving, this pudding delivers old-fashioned comfort that never fades. Enjoy every bite, and let the flavors remind you of cherished moments shared around the table.

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