Here’s a true Southern “Best Banana Pudding” — creamy, rich, and layered the classic way 🍌🥄
This is the kind people ask for again and again.
Best Banana Pudding (Southern Style)
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Homemade Pudding
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks, beaten
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Make the pudding
- In a saucepan, whisk sugar, flour, and salt.
- Gradually whisk in milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Slowly whisk a little hot mixture into egg yolks, then return to pot.
- Cook 2 more minutes.
- Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla.
2. Whipped cream
- Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
3. Assemble
- In a dish, layer:
- Vanilla wafers
- Banana slices
- Warm pudding
- Repeat layers.
- Spread whipped cream on top.
4. Chill
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Why This One’s the Best
- Homemade pudding (no instant mix taste)
- Real whipped cream
- Soft wafers + creamy layers
- Perfect banana flavor without being mushy
Optional Southern Touches
- 🍯 Drizzle honey over bananas
- 🍋 Light lemon juice on bananas to prevent browning
- 🔥 Top with meringue instead of whipped cream (old-school style)
Make-Ahead Tips
- Best eaten within 24 hours
- Cover tightly to prevent fridge smells
If you want, I can also give you:
- Paula Deen–style baked banana pudding
- No-bake shortcut version
- Individual jar servings
Just tell me 😊
