Old Fashioned Banana Pudding with Lemon

There’s something magical about an Old Fashioned Banana Pudding with lemon that feels like home in every spoonful. The creamy layers, sweet bananas, and gentle kiss of lemon bring brightness to this comforting classic. It’s simple, nostalgic, and made completely from scratch for that true Southern-style flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with simple ingredients you already have at home.
• The lemon adds a fresh twist to balance the creamy sweetness.
• Tastes like a Classic Banana Pudding straight from grandma’s kitchen.

Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating this creamy, balanced Banana Pudding Homemade dessert.

• Ripe bananas: Add natural sweetness and that signature banana flavor.
• Whole milk: Creates a creamy pudding base.
• Sugar: Sweetens the custard to perfection.
• Egg yolks: Help thicken the pudding for that silky, cooked texture.
• Cornstarch: Ensures smooth, lump-free pudding.
• Butter: Adds richness and shine.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor for a true From Scratch Banana Pudding.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness.
• Vanilla wafers: Provide soft, cakey layers once baked.
• Whipped cream or meringue: Light, fluffy topping to finish your Oven Baked Banana Pudding.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps for the best Baked Banana Pudding ever.

1. In a saucepan, whisk milk, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat until it starts to thicken.
2. In a small bowl, beat egg yolks. Slowly add a spoonful of hot milk mixture to temper them, then pour back into the pot.
3. Keep stirring until the pudding becomes thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, and lemon juice.
4. In a baking dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
5. Top with whipped cream or meringue, then bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Mistakes to Avoid

Even a Cooked Banana Pudding Old Fashioned can go wrong if you rush. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Don’t overcook the custard. It should coat the spoon, not turn into scrambled eggs.
• Use ripe, not brown bananas. Overripe fruit can make the pudding watery.
• Let your Home Made Banana Pudding rest for at least 1 hour before serving so layers can set.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm straight from the oven or chilled overnight for a denser texture. Pair it with a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of crushed wafers. For dessert inspiration, try my Biscoff Banana Pudding or these Mini Tiramisu Cups if you love layered treats. For fruity lovers, Cream Berry Fairy Dessert or Cotton Candy Cake will also make your sweet table shine.

Old Fashioned Banana Pudding with Lemon

This Old Fashioned Banana Pudding with Lemon is a comforting Southern-style dessert made from scratch. Layers of creamy vanilla custard, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers are topped with whipped cream or meringue, and brightened with a splash of lemon for a fresh twist.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Chill Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine southern

Servings 8 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Dish

Ingredients

  

Pudding Base

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

Assembly

• 3 ripe bananas sliced
• 1 box vanilla wafers
• 1 cup whipped cream or meringue for topping

Instructions

 

• In a saucepan, whisk milk, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat until it starts to thicken.
• In a small bowl, beat egg yolks. Slowly add a spoonful of hot milk mixture to temper them, then pour back into the pot.
• Keep stirring until the pudding becomes thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, and lemon juice.
• In a baking dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
• Top with whipped cream or meringue, then bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Notes

• Let your pudding chill for at least an hour before serving for the best texture.
• Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness.

Keyword Baked Banana Pudding, Banana Pudding Homemade, Banana Pudding Recipe From Scratch, Classic Banana Pudding, Cooked Banana Pudding Old Fashioned, From Scratch Banana Pudding, Home Made Banana Pudding, Oven Baked Banana Pudding, Simple Banana Pudding Recipe

FAQs

Why add lemon to banana pudding?

Lemon brightens up the rich pudding and balances the sweetness. It also helps prevent the bananas from turning brown too quickly, giving your Banana Pudding Recipe From Scratch a fresher look and taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This Simple Banana Pudding Recipe actually gets better as it sits. You can make it a day in advance and chill it overnight. Just cover it tightly to keep moisture in and flavors rich.

How do I stop the pudding from curdling?

Always temper your eggs slowly. Pour a little hot milk mixture into the yolks first, whisking constantly. This step keeps your Classic Banana Pudding smooth and creamy every time.

Conclusion

There’s something timeless about this Old Fashioned Banana Pudding with lemon. It’s simple, soulful, and always a hit whether served warm or chilled. Go ahead and save this recipe, because once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. Don’t forget to pin it for later and share the love!