Are you craving a cool, creamy, and utterly delightful dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This banana pudding recipe, using the magic of sweetened condensed milk, is the perfect answer. Forget complicated baking; this recipe focuses on simple steps and incredible flavor, making it a fantastic choice for both beginner bakers and experienced dessert enthusiasts looking for a quick and delicious treat. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a quiet night in. This recipe delivers a homemade taste without the fuss, making it one of the best recipes you'll find for this classic dessert.
Ingredients:
- For the Pudding:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Assembly:
- 6 ripe but firm bananas, sliced
- 1 box (about 16 ounces) vanilla wafers or Nilla wafers
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Creamy Pudding
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, 3 cups of milk, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. This step ensures a lump-free pudding, so take your time.
Step 2: Tempering the Eggs
In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the eggs, tempering them slowly to prevent scrambling. Then, pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
Step 3: Cooking the Pudding
Cook the pudding over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Reduce the heat and continue to stir for another minute to ensure it's cooked through.
Step 4: Finishing the Pudding
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the pudding into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface (this prevents a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to chill and set completely. This chilling process enhances the flavors and gives the pudding its perfect creamy texture.
Step 5: Assembling the Banana Pudding
Once the pudding is chilled, layer the vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding in a large bowl or individual serving glasses. Start with a layer of wafers, followed by bananas, then a layer of pudding. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of pudding.
Step 6: Topping and Serving
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or sprinkles, if desired. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld completely.
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding:
- Use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and flavor. Slightly underripe bananas will work, but the flavor will be less intense.
- Don't overcook the pudding. Overcooked pudding can become grainy.
- Press the plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming while chilling.
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of 2% or skim milk.
Variations:
- Chocolate Banana Pudding: Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the pudding mixture.
- Spiced Banana Pudding: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding mixture for a warm, comforting twist.
- Peanut Butter Banana Pudding: Stir in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the pudding after it has cooled slightly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Fat: 10-15g Saturated Fat: 6-8g Cholesterol: 40-50mg Sodium: 150-200mg Carbohydrates: 45-55g Sugar: 30-40g Protein: 5-7g
Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
This easy banana pudding recipe is a simple yet impressive dessert that's perfect for any occasion. The creamy pudding, combined with the sweet bananas and crunchy wafers, creates a symphony of flavors and textures you won't soon forget. Enjoy!