Some desserts have withstood the test of time despite changes in consumer preferences. For example, classic graham cracker crust cheesecake, pineapple upside-down cake, chocolate chip cookies, and many other desserts continue to be perennial favorites. Banana pudding is another dessert that tops all-time favorites lists. It is hard to beat the appeal of layers of sweet banana slices, vanilla cookies, pudding, and cream.
The following recipe for “Southern Banana Pudding” from Add a Pinch, an online recipe and meal planning resource, makes quite a tasty banana pudding that features a meringue topping. Serve it at holiday gatherings or any time you want a sweet treat.
Southern Banana Pudding
Serves 8
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
11⁄2 cups sugar
Pinch kosher salt
3 large eggs, separated (you’ll need whites later for meringue)
3 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 11-ounce package vanilla wafers, approximately 45 wafers
5 to 6 bananas
3 egg whites, reserved from above
1⁄8 teaspoon cream of tartar
1⁄4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1. Preheat oven to 325 F. Chill the bowl and beaters for making the meringue (if making).
2. Combine flour, sugar and salt in a large, heavy saucepan.
3. Lightly beat egg yolks and combine with milk in a large bowl or measuring cup. Pour the egg and milk mixture into dry ingredients in heavy saucepan. Cook over low to medium heat, stirring constantly, until ingredients are thickened and smooth. Remove saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla.
4. To layer your banana pudding, begin by placing 1⁄3 of the vanilla wafers on the bottom of a 2-quart oven-safe glass bowl or baking dish.
5. Slice bananas and place 1⁄3 on top of wafers.
6. Pour one-third of custard over wafers and bananas.
7. Repeat layering process two more times until all wafers, bananas, and custard have been used, ending with a final layer of the wafers.
For the meringue:
1. Whip the egg whites with an electric mixer set at high speed.
2. Allow egg whites to foam, add cream of tartar and then gradually add sugar one tablespoon at a time. Continue whipping until sugar is well-dissolved. Add vanilla once stiff peaks have formed and whip until well-combined.
3. Spread the meringue over banana pudding, making sure to spread to the edges of the dish.
4. Bake for about 25 minutes until the meringue is lightly browned.
Banana pudding will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.
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