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Old Fashioned Southern Banana Pudding Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 143 reviews
  • Author: Harper
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Old Fashioned Southern Banana Pudding is a classic, comforting dessert featuring layers of ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and creamy custard topped with fluffy, golden-baked meringue. It’s a nostalgic treat perfect for family gatherings or whenever you crave a sweet, creamy delight.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Ingredients

  • 4 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Meringue Ingredients

  • 3 egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 box vanilla wafers (approx. 11 ounces)

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk: In a saucepan, mix sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually stir in milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a custard.
  2. Temper and Add Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly temper them by adding a bit of the hot custard mixture to the yolks while whisking continuously, then pour this back into the saucepan. Stir in butter and vanilla extract until melted and combined.
  3. Layer the Pudding: In a serving dish, start with a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by sliced bananas, then a layer of warm custard. Repeat these layers until all components are used, finishing with custard on top.
  4. Prepare the Meringue: Beat egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Spread the meringue evenly over the pudding, making sure to seal the edges to prevent shrinking.
  5. Bake the Pudding: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the meringue is beautifully golden brown. Allow the pudding to cool before serving to let it set properly.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid them turning mushy too quickly in the pudding layers.
  • Tempering the egg yolks is crucial to prevent them from curdling when added to the hot custard.
  • Ensure the meringue covers the pudding completely and seals the edges to avoid weeping.
  • Serving chilled enhances the flavor and texture of the pudding.
  • The vanilla wafers add a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy custard.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Keywords: banana pudding, southern dessert, old fashioned banana pudding, classic banana pudding, homemade custard, baked meringue dessert

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Find it online: https://harperellington.com/old-fashioned-southern-banana-pudding-recipe/