Are you craving a comforting, yet elegant dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this baked banana pudding recipe! This classic Southern comfort food gets a delightful upgrade with a creamy, dreamy custard baked to golden perfection. It's the perfect ending to a family dinner, a potluck showstopper, or a simple treat to brighten your day. This recipe delivers a delicious dish, perfect for anyone searching for easy recipes or healthy meals that are also quick dinner ideas (though this one's a dessert!).
Ingredients:
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For the Custard:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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For the Pudding:
- 6 ripe but firm bananas, sliced
- 1 box (16 ounces) vanilla wafers or Nilla wafers
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Optional Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Chopped pecans
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and frothy. Gradually whisk in the flour and salt until smooth. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Assemble the pudding: Layer half of the vanilla wafers in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the sliced bananas over the wafers. Pour half of the custard mixture over the bananas. Repeat the layers with the remaining wafers, bananas, and custard.
Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
Cool and serve: Let the pudding cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows the custard to set properly and prevents a watery texture. For extra indulgence, top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and chopped pecans.
Tips for the Best Baked Banana Pudding:
- Ripe Bananas are Key: Use ripe, but not overly mushy, bananas for the best flavor and texture. Slightly underripe bananas will work as well, but the pudding might be a little less sweet.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry custard. Start checking for doneness around 45 minutes.
- Cool Completely: Patience is key! Allowing the pudding to cool completely ensures a firm, creamy texture.
- Homemade Vanilla Wafers: For an extra special touch, consider making your own vanilla wafers. This homemade cooking project adds another layer of deliciousness.
Variations:
- Chocolate Banana Pudding: Add 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a rich chocolate twist.
- Spiced Banana Pudding: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Coconut Banana Pudding: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the custard mixture for a tropical flair.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving (assuming 12 servings) is:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
This baked banana pudding recipe is a delicious and easy dessert that's sure to impress. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner cook, this recipe offers a delightful experience, showcasing the best recipes from simple ingredients. Enjoy!