Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding

Introduction

Craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from Grandma? This Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding is rich, creamy, and layered with fresh bananas and vanilla wafers. A classic Southern treat made from scratch, it’s perfect for potlucks, Sunday dinners, or just because.

Ingredients List

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups whole milk
4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)
Meringue or whipped cream, optional topping

Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 2–4 hours
Total Time: ~30 minutes active, plus chilling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the pudding base

In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 2: Temper the eggs

Slowly add a bit of the hot pudding mixture to the egg yolks, whisking quickly to avoid scrambling. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring continuously.

Step 3: Add vanilla

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Layer the pudding

In a trifle dish or 9×13-inch pan, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and warm pudding. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, ending with pudding on top.

Step 5: Top and chill

Top with whipped cream or meringue, if desired. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for best flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes ~10)

Calories: 280 kcal
Fat: 9g
Carbs: 45g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 5g

Healthier Alternatives

Use low-fat milk and reduce sugar for a lighter version
Swap vanilla wafers for whole-grain cookies
Use banana-flavored Greek yogurt instead of pudding for a protein-packed option

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled with a dusting of cinnamon
Add a drizzle of caramel or crushed nuts on top
Present in individual jars for party-ready portions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking pudding: Can make it curdle—stir constantly and remove when just thickened
Using overripe bananas: They can get too mushy—use just-ripe bananas
Skipping layering: Even layering ensures balanced flavor in every bite

Storing Tips

Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days
Best enjoyed within 24 hours for peak freshness
Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding is comfort food at its finest—creamy, nostalgic, and full of flavor. It’s a classic that never goes out of style.

Give it a try and let us know your family’s twist on this timeless dessert. Subscribe for more Southern comfort recipes!