Cathy's Banana Pudding

Cathy's Banana Pudding Recipe - Delicious Homemade Dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cathy's Banana Pudding is a classic dessert that is loved by many for its creamy custard, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks.

History

The origins of Cathy's Banana Pudding are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the southern United States. This comforting dessert has been a staple in many households for years, bringing joy to those who enjoy its delicious flavors.

Ingredients

0.75 cup of sugar
2 tbsp of flour
0.25 tsp of salt
2 cups of milk
3 eggs, separated
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1 box of vanilla wafers
6 bananas
1 tsp of banana extract

How to prepare

Combine 0.5 cup of sugar, flour, and salt in the top of a double boiler, then stir in milk.
Cook over boiling water, stirring constantly until thickened.
Cook uncovered for 15 minutes more, stirring occasionally.
Beat egg yolks and gradually stir in the hot mixture.
Return to the double boiler and cook for 15 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat. Add vanilla and banana flavorings.
Line the bottom of a casserole with vanilla wafers and top with a layer of sliced bananas.
Pour a portion of custard over the bananas and continue to layer wafers, bananas, and custard, ending with custard on top.
Beat egg whites until stiff. Add 0.25 cup of sugar.
Pile on top of the pudding in the casserole.
Bake in a 425-degree oven for 5 minutes.

Variations

For a tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut or pineapple chunks to the layers of the pudding.
Swap out the vanilla wafers for graham crackers or shortbread cookies for a different texture and flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the custard over low heat and stir constantly to prevent it from burning.

- Layering the vanilla wafers and bananas evenly will ensure that each bite has a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

- For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for a warm and cozy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cathy's Banana Pudding chilled for a refreshing and satisfying dessert. Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Cathy's Banana Pudding is to cook the custard slowly and stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Be patient and take your time to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have banana extract on hand, you can omit it from the recipe or use a different flavor extract, such as almond or rum, for a unique twist on the classic dessert.

Make Ahead Tips

Cathy's Banana Pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. This dessert actually tastes better as the flavors have time to meld together.

Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful presentation, layer the pudding in individual serving dishes or mason jars for a cute and portable dessert option. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cathy's Banana Pudding pairs well with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk for a comforting and satisfying dessert experience. The creamy custard and sweet bananas are a perfect match for a variety of beverages.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Cathy's Banana Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 30 seconds or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

There are approximately 300 calories in each serving of Cathy's Banana Pudding. This dessert is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cathy's Banana Pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the sugar in the custard and the natural sugars in the bananas.

Fats

There are about 8 grams of fat in each serving of Cathy's Banana Pudding. The fat content mainly comes from the eggs and milk used to make the custard.

Proteins

Each serving of Cathy's Banana Pudding contains around 6 grams of protein. The protein in this dessert comes from the eggs used in the custard.

Vitamins and minerals

Cathy's Banana Pudding is a good source of vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium. Bananas are rich in these nutrients, which are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, milk, and wheat (from the vanilla wafers), which are common allergens. It is important to be mindful of any food allergies or sensitivities when preparing and serving this dish.

Summary

Cathy's Banana Pudding is a tasty dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. Enjoying this treat in moderation can be a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Summary

Cathy's Banana Pudding is a timeless dessert that is loved by many for its creamy texture, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. This recipe is a classic that has been enjoyed for generations and is sure to become a favorite in your household as well.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a sunny afternoon in the early 1970s, and I had just finished browsing through the latest issue of my favorite cooking magazine when I stumbled upon a recipe for Cathy's Banana Pudding. The picture accompanying the recipe showed a luscious, creamy pudding topped with slices of ripe bananas and a generous dollop of whipped cream. My mouth watered just looking at it.

I read through the ingredients list and instructions, and I knew I had to give it a try. The recipe called for simple ingredients like vanilla pudding mix, milk, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers. I had all of these ingredients on hand, so I wasted no time gathering them together and getting to work in my cozy kitchen.

As I mixed the pudding mix with cold milk and whisked it until smooth, the familiar aroma of vanilla filled the air. I sliced the bananas and layered them with the vanilla wafers in a glass dish, then poured the pudding over the top. I popped the dish into the refrigerator to chill, eagerly anticipating the moment when I could dig into the finished dessert.

A few hours later, I pulled the dish out of the refrigerator and marveled at how the pudding had set into a creamy, dreamy consistency. I topped it with a mountain of whipped cream and a sprinkling of crushed vanilla wafers for good measure. I couldn't wait any longer, so I grabbed a spoon and dug in.

The first bite of Cathy's Banana Pudding was pure bliss. The creamy pudding melted in my mouth, while the sweet bananas and crunchy wafers added a delightful contrast in texture. I closed my eyes and savored the flavors dancing on my taste buds, feeling like I had discovered a hidden gem in the world of desserts.

I immediately knew that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire. Over the years, I have made Cathy's Banana Pudding countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time, it never fails to impress and delight everyone who tastes it.

But the story of how I learned to make Cathy's Banana Pudding doesn't end there. A few years after discovering the recipe, I had the pleasure of meeting the woman behind the name - Cathy herself. She was a dear friend of a friend, and when I mentioned how much I loved her pudding recipe, she offered to teach me her secrets.

Cathy invited me over to her cozy kitchen one sunny afternoon, where she showed me step by step how to make her famous banana pudding. I watched in awe as she effortlessly whipped up the pudding, expertly layering the bananas and wafers in the dish. She shared tips and tricks with me, like how to ensure the pudding sets perfectly and how to choose the ripest bananas for maximum flavor.

As we chatted and cooked together, I learned more than just a recipe - I learned about the love and care that goes into creating a dish that brings joy to others. Cathy's Banana Pudding wasn't just a dessert; it was a labor of love, a symbol of friendship and connection.

Since that day, Cathy and I have shared many more cooking adventures together. We have swapped recipes, shared stories, and created countless memories in the kitchen. Making her banana pudding recipe always brings back fond memories of that sunny afternoon when I first learned how to make it from the master herself.

As I sit here now, flipping through the pages of my well-worn recipe book, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back to me. Cathy's Banana Pudding will always hold a special place in my heart, not just because of its delicious taste, but because of the friendships and connections it has brought into my life.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a comforting and delicious dessert, I urge you to give Cathy's Banana Pudding a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe you'll create your own special memories and connections along the way, just like I did. Happy cooking!