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Homemade Southern Banana Pudding

Homemade Southern Banana Pudding

This Homemade Southern Banana Pudding is a classic dessert that features layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and crisp vanilla wafers, all topped with a fluffy golden meringue. It’s a nostalgic, comforting treat perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4-5 ripe bananas
  • 1 box vanilla wafers
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs separated
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/4 cup sugar for meringue

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1/2 cup sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually stir in milk, and cook over medium heat until mixture is thickened and bubbly.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks slightly. Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs. Return the egg mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly. Cook for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  4. In a 2-quart baking dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding mixture, starting with wafers and ending with pudding.
  5. For the meringue, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar, beating on high until stiff peaks form.
  6. Spread meringue over the pudding, sealing to the edges of the dish.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Let cool before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the bananas are ripe for the best flavor.
  • Tempering the eggs is crucial to avoid scrambling them.
  • The meringue should be spread to the edges of the dish to prevent shrinking.
  • Let the pudding cool before serving for the best texture.