Cozy Banana Pudding
A simple, comforting dessert featuring layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and homemade custard that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
For the custard
- 2 cups whole milk can use 2% for a lighter version
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour substitute with 1:1 GF baking flour for gluten-free
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For assembly
- 3–4 pieces ripe bananas, sliced ripe but not overly brown
- 1 box vanilla wafers (11 oz)
- optional Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt until there are no lumps.
- Heat gently over medium, stirring frequently.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the 3 egg yolks until smooth.
- Once the milk mixture is warm and slightly steaming, ladle about 1/2 cup of it into the egg yolks while whisking constantly.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to coat the back of a spoon (about 3–5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and unsalted butter until fully incorporated and glossy. Let the pudding cool for a few minutes.
Layering
- In an 8x8 or similar baking dish, start with a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of banana slices.
- Pour a generous amount of pudding over the bananas.
- Repeat to build two or three layers, finishing with pudding on top.
Chilling
- Cover and chill for at least 2 hours (longer is better for fuller flavor and softened wafers).
- Before serving, top with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
For a thicker custard, increase the flour by a tablespoon. For a boozy twist, brush wafers lightly with dark rum before layering.