This Homemade Banana Pudding is the definition of comfort dessert. Creamy vanilla custard made from scratch, layers of sweet bananas, soft vanilla wafers, and a fluffy whipped cream topping that melts into every bite. It’s nostalgic, rich, and tastes like something you’d find at a family gathering or Southern potluck table.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 8–10
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: About 4 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients List
Homemade Vanilla Custard
- 3 cups whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Layers
- 4–5 ripe bananas (yellow with light spots, not mushy)
- 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)
Whipped Cream Topping
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
Optional Garnish
- Extra crushed vanilla wafers
- Banana slices for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, whisk together:
- sugar
- cornstarch
- salt
Add egg yolks and whisk until smooth.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously so no lumps form.
2. Cook Until Thick
Place saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly.
Cook for 7–9 minutes until thickened and creamy.
It should coat the back of a spoon.
3. Finish the Custard
Remove from heat and stir in:
- vanilla extract
- butter
Let the custard cool slightly while you prep the layers.
4. Slice the Bananas
Peel and slice bananas into ¼-inch rounds.
Try to slice them right before layering to avoid browning.
5. Layer the Banana Pudding
In a 9×13-inch dish (or trifle bowl), layer in this order:
- Vanilla wafers
- Banana slices
- Custard
Repeat until everything is used up, finishing with custard on top.
6. Make the Whipped Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Spread whipped cream evenly across the top of the pudding.
7. Chill (This Makes It Perfect)
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better.
The wafers soften, the custard sets, and the flavors blend beautifully.
8. Serve & Garnish
Before serving, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top or add fresh banana slices for decoration.
Scoop and enjoy cold.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a large dish for family-style comfort dessert
- Layer into mason jars for party-ready individual servings
- Top with caramel drizzle for an extra indulgent version
- Add crushed wafers right before serving for crunch
Storage
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Best texture is on Day 1 and Day 2
- Not freezer-friendly (custard and bananas don’t thaw well)
Tips & Variations
- Don’t rush the custard: low and slow prevents lumps
- Extra flavor: add ½ tsp banana extract (optional)
- Caramel twist: drizzle caramel sauce between layers
- Chocolate version: sprinkle mini chocolate chips between layers
- Southern-style topping: replace whipped cream with meringue if desired
- Prevent browning: lightly toss banana slices with lemon juice (very little)
Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)
Fat: ~15g
Calories: ~320–380
Carbs: ~45g
Protein: ~6g
