Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box (about 11 ounces) vanilla wafer cookies
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pudding Base:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and milk. Gradually add this mixture to the saucepan, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook the Pudding:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil. This will take about 10-12 minutes.
- Once it boils, continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until it reaches a pudding-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until fully combined.
- Assemble the Pudding:
- In a serving dish or individual serving cups, layer vanilla wafer cookies, sliced bananas, and the pudding. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
- Chill:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
- Serve:
- Before serving, you can add an additional layer of sliced bananas on top for freshness.
- Optionally, top with whipped cream just before serving.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the homemade banana pudding chilled and enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness!
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding a meringue topping or incorporating other flavors like chocolate or caramel. Homemade banana pudding is a classic Southern dessert that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!