Step into a tropical paradise with this Tropical Banana Pudding Delight. This recipe combines the creamy comfort of banana pudding with the exotic twist of passion fruit and toasted coconut. It's a refreshing treat that feels like sunshine in a bowl!
Bananas are the star of this pudding, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Choose ripe ones for the best flavor. Coconut cream adds a luxurious, tropical richness that complements the bananas beautifully. Milk helps to create the pudding’s smooth base. Granulated sugar sweetens the deal, balancing the tartness of the passion fruit. Cornstarch thickens the pudding to the perfect consistency, while a touch of salt enhances all the flavors. Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth. Passion fruit pulp introduces a tangy, exotic note that elevates the dessert. Whipped cream on top provides an airy finish. Toasted coconut flakes add a pleasing crunch, and vanilla wafers bring a delightful layer of texture.
This pudding pairs wonderfully with a light, citrus-flavored beverage, like a sparkling lemon-lime soda or a glass of chilled white wine. For a more indulgent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side. It's also delightful as part of a dessert buffet, where its vibrant flavors can shine amidst a spread of treats.
Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. Pour in the milk and coconut cream, then add the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Place the pan over medium heat and keep stirring. You’ll want to pay close attention here, as the mixture will begin to thicken and bubble. That's your cue to take it off the heat.
Once off the heat, stir in the vanilla extract. Set the pudding aside and let it cool for a bit. Now, get your serving dish ready. Start with a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom. Next, scatter a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers. Pour half of the pudding mixture over the bananas, smoothing it out evenly.
Add a layer of passion fruit pulp for that zingy twist. Then, repeat the layers: more wafers, bananas, and the remaining pudding. Make sure to end with the pudding on top.
For the final flourish, dollop whipped cream generously over the top, and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes. Pop the dish into the fridge and let it chill for at least two hours. This helps the flavors meld and the pudding firm up nicely.