North Carolina Banana Pudding

North Carolina Banana Pudding Recipe - Delicious Dessert from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

North Carolina Banana Pudding is a classic Southern dessert that combines layers of creamy custard, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers, topped with a fluffy meringue. This indulgent treat is perfect for any occasion and is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

History

Banana pudding has been a beloved dessert in the South for generations. The combination of bananas, custard, and wafers has been a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and picnics. North Carolina Banana Pudding is a regional variation that adds a meringue topping for an extra touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of sugar
a pinch of salt
3 tbsp of flour
4 eggs
2 cups of milk
vanilla wafers
bananas (preferably with skins that are just starting to turn black)
6 tbsp of sugar

How to prepare

Blend together sugar, salt, and flour.
Add 1 whole egg and 3 egg yolks, and mix until well combined.
Stir in the milk.
Cook the mixture in a double boiler over boiling water, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
In a baking dish, layer whole vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and the custard mixture. Adjust the amount of wafers for desired consistency (more for a drier pudding, less for a soupy one).
Repeat the layering process three times.
Prepare the meringue by whisking the remaining three egg whites with 6 tbsp of sugar until stiff peaks form.
Spread the meringue over the banana mixture and bake in a preheated 375°F (191°C) oven until golden brown.
Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it sit for a minimum of 24 hours before serving. Please refrain from sampling the corners!

Variations

Try adding a layer of crushed pineapple or coconut for a tropical twist.
Substitute graham crackers or shortbread cookies for the vanilla wafers for a different flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the custard mixture constantly while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.

- Let the pudding sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Use ripe bananas with skins that are just starting to turn black for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve North Carolina Banana Pudding chilled, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Cooking Techniques

Use a double boiler to cook the custard mixture gently and prevent it from scorching.

- Whip the egg whites for the meringue until stiff peaks form for a light and fluffy topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

- Swap out the sugar for a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.

Make Ahead Tips

North Carolina Banana Pudding can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve North Carolina Banana Pudding in individual ramekins for a cute and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Enjoy North Carolina Banana Pudding with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of sweet tea for a classic Southern dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover North Carolina Banana Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of North Carolina Banana Pudding contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of North Carolina Banana Pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of North Carolina Banana Pudding contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of North Carolina Banana Pudding contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and milk.

Summary

North Carolina Banana Pudding is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates and fats, with a moderate amount of protein. It is a sweet treat that is best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

North Carolina Banana Pudding is a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With layers of creamy custard, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers, topped with a fluffy meringue, this classic Southern treat is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for North Carolina Banana Pudding. It was tucked away in an old recipe book that belonged to my dear friend Emily, who hailed from the beautiful state of North Carolina. As I carefully flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on the handwritten instructions for this delicious dessert, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I was always drawn to recipes that had a story behind them, and this one was no exception. Emily had told me that this banana pudding was a staple at family gatherings and church potlucks back in North Carolina. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own.

I decided to make the banana pudding for a family gathering of my own, eager to see if it lived up to its reputation. The ingredients were simple and easy to find – ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, eggs, sugar, milk, and a touch of vanilla extract. As I gathered everything I needed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within me.

I followed Emily's instructions to the letter, carefully layering the sliced bananas and vanilla wafers in a baking dish before pouring over the rich custard made from eggs, sugar, and milk. The scent of vanilla filled the air as I popped the dish into the oven to bake, the anticipation of tasting the finished product almost unbearable.

When the pudding was finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in. The custard had set perfectly, with a golden brown crust forming on top. I scooped out a generous portion onto a plate and took a bite, savoring the creamy texture and the sweet combination of bananas and vanilla wafers. It was everything Emily had promised – rich, comforting, and utterly delicious.

As my family gathered around the table to enjoy the pudding, I shared the story of how I came across the recipe and the memories it held for Emily. They all agreed that it was a dessert worth making again and again, a true taste of North Carolina hospitality.

Since that first time making North Carolina Banana Pudding, it has become a firm favorite in my repertoire of recipes. I have made it for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, each time bringing a piece of North Carolina tradition to the table.

I often think back to that moment of curiosity when I stumbled upon the recipe in Emily's old cookbook. It was a reminder that the best recipes are those with a story to tell, passed down through generations and cherished for their ability to bring people together.

In the end, it's not just about the ingredients or the method – it's about the memories and the connections that food can create. And for me, North Carolina Banana Pudding will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the power of good food and good friends.