Homemade Southern Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers: A Comforting Classic

Introduction to Southern Banana Pudding

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about Southern banana pudding. This creamy, layered dessert is a staple in many Southern households, often associated with family gatherings and warm memories. Combining homemade vanilla custard, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, this dish effortlessly combines comfort and flavor, making it a beloved dessert across generations.

This Southern banana pudding recipe is an easy yet decadent treat that requires just a few simple ingredients. With a preparation time of 30 minutes, cooking time of 15 minutes, and a total time of about 45 minutes, you’ll be diving into this sumptuous dessert in no time!

Creamy, comforting, and layered with Southern charm — this Banana Pudding features homemade vanilla custard, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers for a dessert that’s both simple and unforgettable.

🕒 Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling)

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

• Servings: 8–10

🧂 Ingredients

For the Pudding

• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

• ⅓ cup (40g) all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk

• 4 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For Assembly

• 1 (11 oz / 310g) box vanilla wafers

• 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

• 1½ cups (360ml) whipped cream or meringue topping

🔪 Directions

1. Make the Pudding Base
   In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
   Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
   Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8–10 minutes).

2. Temper the Eggs
   In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Slowly whisk in about ½ cup of the hot pudding mixture, then pour the eggs back into the saucepan.
   Cook another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

3. Add Butter & Vanilla
   Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla until smooth.
   Let cool slightly before assembling.

4. Layer the Pudding
   In a trifle dish or 9×13 pan, layer as follows:

   • A layer of vanilla wafers

   • A layer of banana slices

   • A layer of warm pudding
     Repeat until ingredients are used up, ending with pudding on top.

5. Top and Chill
   Spread whipped cream or meringue on top.
   Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for best flavor.

💡 Pro Tips

• For authentic Southern flavor, use Nilla Wafers and real vanilla extract.

• Toast wafers for a slight crunch even after chilling.

• You can also bake it briefly (8–10 minutes at 350°F) to brown the meringue topping.