Best Banana Pudding Recipes for Dessert Lovers

If you're a fan of the creamy, sweet delight that is banana pudding, you're in for a treat. Today, we're diving deep into the world of banana pudding recipes, exploring variations that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. From the traditional Southern-style to unique modern twists, these recipes will make you want to reach for your apron.

Southern Classic Banana Pudding

Let’s start with the time-honored classic that has captured the hearts of dessert enthusiasts across the South. Here’s a simple yet divine recipe:

• 2 cups of milk
• ¹⁄₂ cup of sugar
• ¹⁄₃ cup of all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₄ tsp of salt
• 4 egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 box of vanilla wafers
• 6 ripe bananas, sliced

Begin by whisking together milk, sugar, flour, and salt in a saucepan. Once well combined, cook over medium heat until it thickens, whisking constantly. Slowly incorporate the egg yolks, ensuring they don’t scramble. Add vanilla extract. Now layer wafers, bananas, and pudding mix in a dish, repeating until ingredients are used up. Refrigerate for several hours, and let the magic happen.

🍌 Note: Ensure the pudding cools to room temperature before chilling in the fridge to avoid condensation that could make your wafers soggy.

Vegan Banana Pudding

For those avoiding dairy or eggs, this vegan version of banana pudding is both delicious and simple:

• 2 cans of full-fat coconut milk
• ¹⁄₃ cup of cornstarch
• ¹⁄₃ cup of sugar
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₄ tsp of salt
• Vegan vanilla wafers
• 4-5 bananas, sliced

Whisk together coconut milk, cornstarch, sugar, and salt in a pot. Cook this mixture until it thickens. After cooling, mix in the vanilla extract. Layer just as with the classic recipe, and let it set in the fridge.

🌱 Note: The coconut milk gives this pudding a distinct flavor. If you’re not a fan, try using almond milk with agar agar for a gel-like texture.

Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding

Combine two beloved desserts into one with this recipe:

• 6 cups of cubed bread (stale is best)
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• ¹⁄₂ cup of sugar
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₂ cup of chocolate chips or chunks

Mix all ingredients except for the bread and chocolate. Once smooth, fold in the bread cubes and let them soak for about 10 minutes. Add chocolate chips. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until set. Serve warm or chilled.

🍫 Note: If you’re baking this for a special occasion, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Banana Pudding Ice Cream

Turn your dessert into a frozen delight:

• 2 cups of heavy cream
• 1 cup of whole milk
• ³⁄₄ cup of sugar
• 1 tbsp of cornstarch
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Heat cream, milk, sugar, and cornstarch until dissolved. Temper this mixture into the mashed bananas, then cook until thickened. Once cooled, churn in an ice cream maker, adding vanilla extract and salt. If you want that classic pudding texture, add crumbled vanilla wafers before freezing.

❄️ Note: For an extra creamy texture, you might consider using a custard base by cooking the egg yolks with the milk.

Wrapping Up

We’ve journeyed through an array of delightful banana pudding recipes, each offering its own unique twist to this beloved dessert. From the classic Southern version to vegan, chocolate-infused, and even frozen delights, there’s a banana pudding for every palate. Remember to consider the dietary preferences of your guests or your own, and feel free to experiment with these recipes to make them your own.

Can I use fresh bananas in pudding?

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Absolutely! Fresh bananas work well in banana pudding, giving it a vibrant flavor and texture. Just make sure they are ripe for the best taste.

How can I make my banana pudding healthier?

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Consider using almond or coconut milk instead of heavy cream, sweeten with honey or agave, and perhaps reduce the sugar content. Vegan versions are inherently healthier, too.

How long does banana pudding last in the fridge?

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Banana pudding typically keeps for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator. After this time, the bananas might start to brown, but it’s still safe to eat if stored correctly.