What are the ingredients in a banana pudding?

Banana pudding typically includes ripe bananas, vanilla pudding, vanilla wafers, milk, sugar, eggs or cornstarch (for scratch-made pudding), and vanilla extract. Optional toppings like whipped cream or cinnamon can add extra flair.

How can you keep bananas from turning brown in banana pudding?

To keep bananas fresh, lightly coat the slices with lemon or lime juice. The acidity prevents oxidation, which causes browning, without affecting the flavor significantly.

Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of milk for pudding?

Yes, you can use sweetened condensed milk for a richer, sweeter pudding. However, reduce or omit additional sugar since condensed milk is already very sweet.

What can you use in banana pudding instead of wafers?

You can substitute vanilla wafers with graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even sponge cake for a unique twist while still maintaining the pudding's texture.

How is pudding made from scratch?

Pudding from scratch combines milk, sugar, a thickener like cornstarch or egg yolks, and flavoring like vanilla. Simmer the mixture over medium heat, whisking until it thickens, then let it cool before layering.

What ingredients are in Patti LaBelle's banana pudding?

Patti LaBelle’s banana pudding often includes vanilla pudding mix, sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, whipped topping, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers. Her recipe is known for its extra creamy and decadent texture.

Southern Banana Pudding Recipe: A Classic, Creamy Delight

Banana Pudding Recipe

Print Recipe

This Classic Southern Banana Pudding is a rich, creamy, and comforting dessert layered with vanilla wafers, sweet bananas, and a luscious homemade vanilla pudding. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, combining tradition with simplicity to create a dessert that never goes out of style. With a touch of cinnamon and whipped cream, this recipe is destined to be a favorite in your home!

Author: Emily Walker
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: One 9x13-inch dish of banana pudding 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake (Assembly) or Stovetop (Pudding Preparation)
Cuisine: Southern
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

For the Vanilla Pudding:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold milk (for mixing cornstarch)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For the Layers:
- 4–5 ripe bananas (sliced)
- 1 box (12 ounces) vanilla wafers
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Optional: Chopped nuts, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or fresh fruit for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Vanilla Pudding:
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk, sugar, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm (do not boil).
- In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold milk until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the saucepan while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the pudding thickens. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let it cool slightly.
Assemble the Banana Pudding:
- In a large baking dish or serving bowl, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
- Top with a layer of sliced bananas.
- Pour a layer of pudding over the bananas, spreading it evenly.
- Repeat the layers of wafers, bananas, and pudding until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
Finish and Chill:
- Add whipped cream as the final topping and garnish with chopped nuts, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or fresh banana slices for decoration.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the pudding set.
Serve:
- Serve chilled in individual bowls or glasses. Enjoy this creamy, nostalgic dessert!

Notes

For a no-bake version, use instant pudding mix and skip the stovetop pudding preparation.
To prevent bananas from browning, lightly toss them with lemon juice before layering.
This dessert tastes even better the next day, as the flavors fully meld together.
Use mason jars or individual ramekins for a fun, portable serving option.

Keywords: Classic Southern Banana Pudding

Find it online: https://www.tastyfrontier.com/southern-banana-pudding-recipe/