How to Make Classic Banana Pudding Easy & Perfectly

There’s something so cozy and nostalgic about classic banana pudding. Creamy layers of pudding, fresh bananas, and soft vanilla wafers come together in a dessert that feels like a warm hug. If you’ve ever wondered how to make banana pudding that’s easy yet tastes like it took all day, you’re in the right place.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, comforting layers made from scratch.
• Perfect balance of banana flavor and silky vanilla pudding.
• Simple ingredients you already have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into making the best banana pudding recipe easy enough for any day:

• Ripe bananas: They bring natural sweetness and that classic banana flavor. Choose ones with a few brown spots.
• Whole milk: Keeps the pudding rich and creamy.
• Egg yolks: Help thicken the custard and give it that silky, cooked banana pudding texture.
• Sugar: Balances the banana’s natural sweetness.
• Cornstarch: The secret to thick, smooth pudding without lumps.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and aroma to your homemade pudding.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create that glossy finish.
• Vanilla wafers: Softens beautifully between the pudding layers.
• Whipped cream: For a light and fluffy topping that makes this the best banana pudding ever.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s make this banana pudding from scratch together:

1. In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add milk while whisking to keep it smooth.
2. Place over medium heat, stirring constantly until it starts to thicken. This takes about 5 minutes.
3. Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl, then slowly pour in a little of the hot milk mixture to temper them.
4. Pour the tempered yolks back into the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until creamy and thick like custard.
5. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla, and let cool slightly.
6. In a baking dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and warm pudding. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
7. Top with whipped cream, cover, and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Classic Banana Pudding

• Don’t use green bananas. They won’t soften properly or add sweetness.
• Avoid rushing the pudding; it needs slow stirring for a smooth texture.
• Don’t skip chilling time. It helps flavors blend and the pudding set perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cooked banana pudding cold, with extra banana slices and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top. It pairs beautifully with a cup of homemade ice cream or even a slice of pound cake for extra indulgence. For more creamy desserts, try the easy lemon cream pie or Paula Deen Chocolate Banana Pudding.

Classic Banana Pudding

A cozy, nostalgic dessert made with creamy homemade vanilla pudding, layers of ripe bananas, and soft vanilla wafers. This classic banana pudding is rich, comforting, and easy to make—perfect for any occasion when you crave something sweet and familiar.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Chilling Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

Custard Pudding

• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp butter

Assembly

• 4 ripe bananas sliced
• 1 box vanilla wafers
• 1 cup whipped cream for topping

Instructions

 

• In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
• Place the pan over medium heat and cook while stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add some of the hot mixture into the yolks to temper them, whisking constantly.
• Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, until the custard thickens further.
• Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
• In a baking dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and warm pudding. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
• Top with whipped cream, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

• Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and avoid skipping the chilling time to allow flavors to meld.
• Brushing banana slices with lemon or orange juice helps prevent browning.

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FAQs

Why does my banana pudding get watery?

This often happens if the pudding is undercooked or not cooled properly. Always cook the custard until it’s thick enough to coat a spoon, and let it chill completely before layering.

How do I keep bananas from turning brown?

Lightly brush banana slices with lemon juice or dip them in diluted orange juice before layering. This keeps them fresh and pretty for hours.

Can I make banana pudding the night before?

Yes, and it actually tastes better! Overnight chilling lets the wafers soften and the pudding set beautifully, making it taste even more like classic banana pudding.

Conclusion

Once you try this, you’ll see why it’s the best banana pudding ever. Each bite is creamy, sweet, and nostalgic. Save this recipe to your Pinterest board and make it whenever you need a quick comfort dessert that brings everyone to the table smiling.