Old Fashioned Banana Pudding

Simple & delicious layers of vanilla

wafer cookies, sliced bananas 

and homemade pudding.

Ingredients:

4 to 5 ripe bananas

2 cups whole or 2% milk

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2/3 cup sugar

1/4 cup cornstarch

4 egg yolks

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon banana extract (optional)

2 tablespoons butter

1 box vanilla wafers

whipped cream (optional for garnish)

Method:

Combine the milk and cream in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, being careful not to boil. 

In a separate bowl, sift together the sugar and cornstarch. Check the milk and cream. Remove from heat.

In an 8 cup measuring cup, or bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended and smooth.

Gradually whisk the sugar mixture into the eggs until a smooth paste is formed.

"Temper" the egg mixture by slowly pouring 1/2 cup of the hot milk & cream into the egg mixture, while continuously whisking. (This prevents the eggs from scrambling.)

Over medium heat, while stirring constantly, return the tempered egg mixture to the heated liquids in the saucepan. Continue to cook the mixture for 2 or 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil. 

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter and extracts. Set aside and allow to cool while slicing the bananas into rounds about 1/3 inch thick.

In a trifle dish, or large serving bowl, layer the cookies, bananas and pudding. 

Begin with a layer of cookies, followed by a layer of banana slices and then a layer of pudding to cover. Repeat for 2 more layers or until all of the ingredients are used. End with a layer of pudding on top. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the pudding to prevent a "skin" from forming on top. 

Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours. (Refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to develop and to set completely.)

If desired, garnish each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of banana or a vanilla wafer cookie. Makes 10 servings.

Notes:

My husband has fond memories of the banana pudding that his mother used to make. The recipe she had used boxed pudding mix, but this version with a homemade pudding is even better and the pudding is very simple to make. 🥰