Southern Banana Pudding
Southern Banana Pudding Recipe | USA | Ingredients: Eggs, Evaporated Milk, Sugar, Bananas, Vanilla
Introduction
Southern Banana Pudding is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This creamy and delicious treat is made with layers of vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and a rich custard filling. It is the perfect dessert to bring to a potluck or enjoy at a family gathering.
History
Banana pudding has been a popular dessert in the Southern United States for many years. It is believed to have originated in the late 19th century when bananas became more readily available in the region. The combination of bananas, vanilla wafers, and custard quickly became a favorite among families and has remained a staple in Southern cooking ever since.
Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- 2 large cans of evaporated milk
- 1 cup of sugar
- 8 bananas
- 1 box of vanilla wafers
How to prepare
- Heat the milk in a medium saucepan until it is scalding.
- In a large, uncrackable bowl, place half a box of wafers and slice half of the bananas.
- Beat the eggs until frothy. Pour some of the hot milk into the eggs.
- Pour the egg mixture back into the pan, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. Remove from heat.
- Pour half of the mixture over the bananas, making sure to cover them completely. Add the remaining wafers and slice the remaining bananas.
- Pour the remaining milk mixture over all the bananas. Allow it to cool and then cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate.
- Serve plain or top with Cool Whip.
Variations
- Try adding a layer of chocolate pudding or caramel sauce for a different flavor.
- Use different types of cookies, such as graham crackers or shortbread, in place of the vanilla wafers.
- Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard for a boozy twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
- Be sure to scald the milk before adding it to the egg mixture to prevent curdling.
- Allow the pudding to cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Top with whipped cream or meringue for an extra special touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Southern Banana Pudding chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to scald the milk before adding it to the egg mixture to prevent curdling.
- Stir the custard constantly while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.
- Allow the pudding to cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use almond or coconut milk in place of evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.
- Use gluten-free cookies in place of the vanilla wafers for a gluten-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
Southern Banana Pudding can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Southern Banana Pudding in individual mason jars or parfait glasses for a fun and elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Southern Banana Pudding pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet tea.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Southern Banana Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Southern Banana Pudding contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Southern Banana Pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Southern Banana Pudding contains approximately 10 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Southern Banana Pudding contains approximately 6 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.
Alergens
This recipe contains eggs and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Southern Banana Pudding is a delicious dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of protein and contains important vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Southern Banana Pudding is a classic dessert that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. With layers of creamy custard, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers, this dessert is a delicious and comforting treat that is perfect for any occasion.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Southern Banana Pudding. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck picnic at the park with some friends. I wanted to bring a dessert that would impress everyone and leave them asking for the recipe.
As I searched through my collection of cookbooks and recipe cards, I stumbled upon a yellowed piece of paper tucked away in the back of a drawer. It was a handwritten recipe for Southern Banana Pudding, passed down to me from my own grandmother many years ago. I had never attempted to make it before, but something about the nostalgia of the recipe and the promise of its deliciousness compelled me to give it a try.
The recipe was simple, calling for just a few basic ingredients - ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, pudding mix, milk, and whipped cream. But the real secret, as the recipe noted in my grandmother's elegant cursive handwriting, was in the technique. Layering the ingredients just so, allowing the flavors to meld together overnight, and serving the pudding at just the right temperature were all crucial steps in achieving the perfect Southern Banana Pudding.
I set to work in my kitchen, carefully following each step of the recipe. I sliced the bananas thinly, arranging them in a single layer at the bottom of a glass dish. I covered the bananas with a layer of vanilla wafers, their sweet, crisp texture providing the perfect contrast to the creamy pudding that would come next.
As I mixed together the pudding mix and milk on the stovetop, I couldn't help but think back to the times I had watched my own grandmother prepare this dessert in her cozy kitchen. She always seemed to know just the right amount of each ingredient to use, never needing to measure anything out precisely. I tried to channel her intuition as I stirred the pudding, watching it thicken and bubble before pouring it over the layers of bananas and wafers.
After letting the pudding set in the refrigerator overnight, I topped it with a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream and a sprinkling of crushed wafers for added texture. The finished dessert looked beautiful, with layers of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy wafers all coming together in perfect harmony.
At the picnic the next day, I proudly presented my Southern Banana Pudding to my friends. As they took their first bites, their eyes widened in delight, and I knew I had succeeded in creating a dessert that would be remembered for years to come.
Since that day, I have made Southern Banana Pudding countless times, each batch better than the last as I continue to refine my technique and tweak the recipe to suit my own tastes. But no matter how many times I make it, the memory of that first time discovering the recipe and the joy it brought to my friends will always hold a special place in my heart.
As I write this, I can't help but smile, thinking about all the recipes I have collected over the years and the stories behind each one. Each dish tells a tale of where it came from, who shared it with me, and the memories it holds. And for me, there is no recipe more special than my grandmother's Southern Banana Pudding - a simple, yet delicious dessert that brings people together and warms the soul with every bite.
Categories
| American Recipes | Banana Desserts | Banana Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Dessert Recipes | Evaporated Milk Recipes | Nondairy Topping Recipes |