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There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about Southern Banana Pudding. It’s a beloved family dessert that brings together airy meringue, creamy pudding, and ripe bananas in a delightful harmony of flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Banana Pudding is a comfort food staple in the South, cherished for its perfect balance of vanilla wafers, pudding, and bananas. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through generations, promising warmth and sweetness in every bite.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Medium saucepan
- Casserole dish
- Electric mixer
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk
- 4 eggs, separated
- 1 tablespoon vanilla flavor
- 1 box of Nilla Vanilla Wafers
- 4 medium ripe bananas
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly over low heat until the mixture thickens.
- Continue stirring and cooking for about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, beat the egg yolks in a separate bowl.
- Slowly stir the beaten egg yolks into the thickened mixture, ensuring constant stirring.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes while continuing to stir. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla flavor.
- Line the bottom of a casserole dish with vanilla wafers and sliced bananas, then pour over a layer of the custard mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of custard on top.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar and continue to whip until the mixture peaks.
- Spread the meringue over the top of the custard and bake in a preheated oven at 450°F for about 5 minutes or until browned.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Success
Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature before beating to achieve the best meringue consistency. Stir the custard constantly to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a twist, try adding a layer of crushed pecans for extra crunch. You can also experiment with using chocolate wafers for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding in advance and refrigerate it. Add the meringue just before serving and give it a quick bake to brown the top.
Can I use instant pudding mix instead?
While instant pudding is a quicker option, making the pudding from scratch gives it a richer flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Southern Banana Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of family history that’s ready to be shared and enjoyed. We invite you to try this recipe and let us know how it turned out for you. Share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below!
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