Banana Cream Pudding

Banana Cream Pudding Recipe with Vanilla and Sour Cream

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Banana Cream Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of pudding with the sweet, tropical flavor of bananas. This recipe offers a lighter version of the traditional banana cream pie, using skim milk and a reduced amount of sugar to create a dessert that's both satisfying and relatively guilt-free. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight treat, this banana cream pudding is sure to become a favorite.

History

The origins of banana cream pudding can be traced back to the United States in the 19th century, where bananas began to gain popularity as an exotic fruit. The dessert is a variation of the classic cream pie, which has been a staple in American cuisine for many years. Over time, the recipe has evolved, with many variations including this lighter version that caters to health-conscious individuals without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

Formatted by Joyce Burton
Bottom Layer
0.33 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 tbsp sugar
2 tsp Molly McButter

Filling

3 oz (85 g) package of vanilla pudding & pie filling mix
1.5 cups evaporated skim milk
0.5 cup skim milk
0.33 cup sugar
1 tsp Molly McButter
0.5 tsp vanilla extract
0.33 cup fat-free sour cream
3 large bananas, sliced

Topping

0.25 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp sugar

How to prepare

In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the bottom layer. Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the bottom of a 9" pie plate that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.
Set the pie plate aside. In a medium saucepan, combine the pudding mix, evaporated milk, skim milk, sugar, and Molly McButter.
Stir the mixture over medium heat until the pudding comes to a boil. Remove from heat and add vanilla and sour cream.
Using an electric mixer, mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add sliced bananas and spoon the mixture into the pie plate.
Combine the ingredients for the topping and sprinkle it over the top. Chill the pie to allow it to set.
Calories per serving:.
Fat per serving: less than 1 g

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding a layer of chocolate pudding beneath the banana layer or mixing in some peanut butter into the pudding mixture for a peanut butter banana flavor. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your banana cream pudding, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture.

- For a smoother pudding, whisk continuously while cooking to prevent lumps.

- Chill the pudding for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly before serving.

- To prevent the bananas from browning, you can lightly toss them in lemon juice before adding them to the pudding.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the banana cream pudding chilled, garnished with additional banana slices or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can also add a warm, spicy note to the dessert.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the preparation of the pudding mixture, which involves cooking it over medium heat while continuously stirring to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Using an electric mixer to blend in the sour cream and vanilla ensures a uniform texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the evaporated skim milk and skim milk with almond milk or coconut milk. For a sugar-free version, use a sugar substitute that is suitable for cooking.

Make Ahead Tips

This banana cream pudding can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together and the pudding to fully set.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve the pudding in individual glasses layered with additional graham cracker crumbs and banana slices. Garnish with a mint leaf for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Banana cream pudding pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more indulgent pairing, consider a dessert wine such as a Moscato or a Riesling.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This dessert is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this banana cream pudding contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie dessert option. This is ideal for those who are watching their calorie intake but still want to indulge in a sweet treat.

Carbohydrates

This banana cream pudding recipe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving. The carbohydrates come from the sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and bananas. Opting for whole grain graham crackers can provide a slight increase in dietary fiber.

Fats

This recipe is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving. The minimal fat content is primarily due to the use of skim milk and the absence of high-fat ingredients like butter or heavy cream.

Proteins

Each serving of banana cream pudding contains about 5 grams of protein, thanks to the evaporated skim milk and skim milk. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making this dessert a slightly more nutritious option.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana cream pudding is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk and potassium from the bananas. These nutrients are important for bone health and maintaining proper muscle and nerve function.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy. It also contains gluten from the graham cracker crumbs.

Summary

Overall, this banana cream pudding is a healthier alternative to traditional dessert recipes. It is low in fat and calories, provides a moderate amount of protein, and is rich in certain vitamins and minerals. However, those with specific dietary restrictions should be mindful of the dairy and gluten content.

Summary

This banana cream pudding recipe offers a lighter take on a classic dessert, featuring the delightful combination of bananas and creamy pudding. With its low fat and calorie content, it's a guilt-free treat that doesn't skimp on flavor. Whether you're serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice as a weeknight dessert, it's sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy little kitchen. As she whipped up a batch of banana cream pudding, the delicious aroma filled the room and made my mouth water.

I watched with fascination as Margaret sliced ripe bananas and layered them with creamy vanilla pudding and crumbled cookies. The whole process seemed like magic to me, and I couldn't wait to learn how to make it myself.

Margaret noticed my excitement and smiled. "Would you like to learn how to make banana cream pudding, my dear?" she asked. I nodded eagerly, and she handed me a pen and paper to jot down the recipe.

As she guided me through each step, I listened intently and asked questions when I didn't understand. Margaret's patience and expertise made the process easy, and soon enough, I had the recipe memorized.

Over the years, I made banana cream pudding countless times, each batch better than the last. I experimented with different variations, adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a splash of rum for extra flavor. No matter how I tweaked the recipe, it always brought back memories of that summer day in Margaret's kitchen.

As I grew older, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making banana cream pudding to the next generation. My grandchildren loved helping me in the kitchen, slicing bananas and stirring pudding with eager hands.

One day, my granddaughter asked me where I had learned to make banana cream pudding. I smiled and began to tell her the story of Margaret and our magical summer day in the kitchen.

But as I spoke, I realized that the recipe for banana cream pudding wasn't just from Margaret. It was a compilation of memories and experiences from various places and people over the years. Each time I made it, I added a little bit of myself to the mix, making it truly my own.

I had learned to make banana cream pudding from Margaret, but I had also picked up tips and tricks from other friends and family members along the way. From my mother's secret ingredient to my neighbor's baking technique, each person had contributed to the recipe in their own unique way.

And so, as I passed on the recipe to my granddaughter, I knew that she would add her own twist to it, creating a version that was uniquely hers. Just like me, she would gather inspiration from the people and places around her, making the recipe for banana cream pudding a living, breathing entity that would continue to evolve with each new generation.

As I watched my granddaughter carefully slice bananas and layer them with creamy pudding, I felt a sense of pride and nostalgia wash over me. The recipe for banana cream pudding had brought me closer to the people I loved, connecting me to a network of memories and experiences that spanned a lifetime.

And as we sat down to enjoy our dessert together, I knew that the tradition of making banana cream pudding would live on, passed down from generation to generation, just like the love and laughter that filled our hearts.