Homemade Banana Pudding

Published: October 28, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Homemade Banana Pudding

This incredible Homemade Banana Pudding transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Homemade Banana Pudding:

Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are perfectly ripe—yellow with a few brown spots for optimal sweetness and creaminess in your pudding.
Vanilla Wafer Cookies: These add a delightful crunch and flavor; feel free to use any brand you love.
Milk: Whole milk works best for a rich pudding texture; however, feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk if desired.
Sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.
Cornstarch: This is crucial for thickening your pudding without compromising its creamy texture.
Butter: A small amount of unsalted butter adds richness; make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract if possible; it makes all the difference in flavor depth.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Homemade Banana Pudding:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients so you’re ready to go! Slice the ripe bananas into rounds and set them aside because they will soon become the stars of our pudding.

Step 2: Make the Pudding Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk continuously until it thickens—around five minutes should do it! Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3: Layer It Up

In a large serving bowl (or individual cups if you’re feeling fancy), layer the bottom with vanilla wafer cookies followed by a generous layer of sliced bananas. Pour half of the warm pudding over these layers.

Step 4: Repeat Layers

Repeat layering with more cookies and bananas followed by pouring on the remaining pudding over everything. Finish off with an extra sprinkle of crushed wafers on top for added crunch!

Step 5: Chill

Cover your masterpiece with plastic wrap (to avoid any sad skin forming) and place it in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight. This allows all those glorious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Scoop out portions into bowls or plates and get ready for compliments! You might even want to prepare yourself for some happy dance moves from those who indulge in this deliciousness!

Now you’ve got yourself an amazing Homemade Banana Pudding that not only tastes fantastic but also brings back those heartwarming memories each time you take a bite!

You Must Know About Homemade Banana Pudding

This showstopping Homemade Banana Pudding delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Homemade Banana Pudding, start by preparing the pudding mixture first while your bananas and cookies are ready nearby. This way, you can layer everything perfectly without delays.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Homemade Banana Pudding by adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond for a unique twist. You can also swap vanilla wafers for graham crackers if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Homemade Banana Pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If reheating is necessary, do so gently in the microwave to prevent the pudding from becoming too runny.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Homemade Banana Pudding

This professional-quality Homemade Banana Pudding relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

When I first made this Homemade Banana Pudding for my family gathering, I could hear gasps of delight! My cousin even declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which was quite a compliment coming from a self-proclaimed dessert critic!

FAQs

What is Homemade Banana Pudding?

Homemade Banana Pudding is a classic dessert that combines layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers. This delightful treat is known for its rich flavor and smooth texture. Many families enjoy this recipe for special occasions or as a comforting everyday dessert. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade banana pudding allows you to control the ingredients, making it fresher and more delicious. With a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, it’s no wonder that this dessert has stood the test of time.

How do I make Homemade Banana Pudding from scratch?

To make Homemade Banana Pudding from scratch, start by preparing the pudding mixture using milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Cook this mixture until it thickens. Once thickened, remove it from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow it to cool slightly before layering it with sliced bananas and vanilla wafers in a dish. Refrigerate for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled for the best experience!

Can I use other fruits in my Homemade Banana Pudding?

Absolutely! While bananas are the star of this dessert, you can experiment with other fruits too. Strawberries, peaches, or even blueberries can add exciting flavors to your Homemade Banana Pudding. Just remember that using juicy fruits might change the overall texture slightly. Layering these fruits with your pudding will not only enhance their visual appeal but also create a refreshing twist on this classic dish.

How long does Homemade Banana Pudding last in the fridge?

Homemade Banana Pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. After that period, the bananas may start to brown and lose their freshness. To prolong its shelf life, consider adding sliced bananas just before serving or using an acid like lemon juice to prevent browning. Always cover your pudding tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Conclusion

In summary, Homemade Banana Pudding is a timeless dessert that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. By following simple steps, you can create layers of creamy pudding combined with fresh bananas and cookies. Remember that experimenting with different fruits can bring new flavors to this classic dish. Enjoy your Homemade Banana Pudding chilled for optimal taste and texture, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual treats at home!

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📖 Recipe Card