Banana Pudding
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafers
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract together.
- Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
- In a 9×13 inch dish, layer the vanilla wafers and sliced bananas.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious banana pudding!
There’s something about banana pudding that just screams comfort food. It’s creamy, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. And while it may seem like a simple dessert, there are a few key ingredients and techniques that can take it from good to great.
First and foremost, the bananas themselves are crucial. You want them to be ripe but not too mushy, with just the right amount of sweetness. And when you’re layering them in the pudding, be sure to slice them thinly and evenly so that each bite has a perfect balance of banana and pudding.
Speaking of pudding, homemade is always best. Sure, you could use a boxed mix, but taking the time to make it from scratch will pay off in spades. Use a combination of milk and cream for richness, and don’t skimp on the vanilla extract. And when you’re cooking the pudding on the stove, be sure to whisk constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
Finally, the topping. Whipped cream is a classic choice, but you could also use meringue for a lighter, fluffier finish. And don’t forget the garnish – a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers or a few slices of fresh banana will add the perfect touch of crunch and freshness.
So there you have it – my tips for making the ultimate banana pudding. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or just enjoying it on a lazy Sunday afternoon, this classic dessert is sure to please.