Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding Delight is a timeless dessert that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy afternoons. This recipe is a creamy, layered treat that's both comforting and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.
Bananas bring natural sweetness and a soft, luscious texture to the dessert. It's best to use ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness. Whole milk forms the base of the custard, giving it a rich and creamy consistency. Sugar sweetens the custard, balancing the natural sweetness of the bananas. All-purpose flour and salt help thicken the custard, ensuring it holds its shape in the layers. Egg yolks enrich the custard, adding depth and a lovely yellow hue. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and aroma. A touch of unsalted butter contributes to the silky texture of the custard. Vanilla wafers add a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy layers. Finally, a dollop of whipped cream on top brings everything together with a light and airy finish.
Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding Delight pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra luxurious treat. Alternatively, serve it alongside a slice of pound cake for a more substantial dessert offering. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider portioning the pudding into individual cups for an elegant presentation.
Start by grabbing a medium-sized saucepan. In it, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until they're well combined. This helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients before you add any liquid. Now, gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Place the saucepan over medium heat and keep stirring until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This can take a bit of patience, but it’s worth it!
While the milk mixture is thickening, crack the eggs and separate the yolks into a small bowl. Beat them gently. Once your milk mixture is ready, slowly whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the yolks. This step is crucial as it tempers the yolks, preventing them from scrambling when you add them back to the hot mixture. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, stirring constantly, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
With your custard ready, it’s time to assemble. In a serving dish, lay down a single layer of vanilla wafers. Top with a layer of sliced bananas and then a generous layer of custard. Repeat these layers, making sure to end with a layer of custard on top. This creates that classic, layered look that’s so inviting.
Let the pudding cool slightly before transferring it to the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 2 hours, or until it’s completely set. When you’re ready to serve, add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra touch of indulgence.