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A full view of a glass bowl featuring traditional Southern banana pudding layers: vanilla wafers, fresh banana slices, creamy pudding, and whipped cream, elegantly presented on a table with dessert utensils.
Chef Marcy Grece

Old Fashioned Banana Pudding

5 from 3 votes
Discover the ultimate Old Fashioned Banana Pudding recipe, a creamy and comforting homemade dessert layered with vanilla wafers, bananas, and topped with a fluffy meringue. Perfect for family gatherings or as a nostalgic treat!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 10 serving
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bananas peeled and sliced
  • Vanilla wafers about 50
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole or 2% milk
  • 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the meringue:
  • 4 egg whites
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls – For preparing the custard and meringue.
  • Whisk – To ensure a smooth custard texture.
  • Medium saucepan – To cook the custard.
  • Electric mixer – For whipping egg whites into stiff peaks.
  • 2-quart casserole dish – For assembling the pudding layers.
  • Oven or broiler – To brown the meringue.

Method
 

  1. Prepare the pudding:
  2. Slice the bananas and sprinkle them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. In a 2-quart baking dish, layer the vanilla wafers and sliced bananas. Use about 10 wafers to line the edges of the dish if you’d like a decorative look.
  4. Make the custard:
  5. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, salt, flour, egg yolks, regular milk, and evaporated milk.
  6. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk, for about 7-8 minutes or until the mixture thickens. (Be careful not to let it burn).
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  8. Pour the custard over the wafers and bananas in the dish.
  9. Prepare the meringue:
  10. Beat the egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form.
  11. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until smooth and glossy.
  12. Spread the meringue evenly over the pudding.
  13. Bake:
  14. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the meringue is lightly browned. Alternatively, place it under the broiler to quickly brown the top.
  15. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy this classic, homemade dessert!

Notes

Tips for Making the Best Banana Pudding
  • Prevent Bananas from Browning: Sprinkle sliced bananas with lemon juice to maintain their fresh appearance.
  • Layering for Aesthetic Appeal: Use whole vanilla wafers to line the edges of the dish for a decorative touch.
  • Custard Cooking Tips: Stir constantly while cooking the custard to avoid lumps or burning. A whisk works best for smooth results.
  • Customize the Recipe: Use different cookie varieties (like graham crackers or shortbread) for a twist.
  • Serve Warm or Chilled: Enjoy immediately for a warm dessert or refrigerate for a cold, creamy pudding.