Table of Contents
Introduction:
Banana pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience, a comforting delight that stirs up memories of family gatherings, Southern hospitality, and that warm, nostalgic feeling we all crave from time to time. Whether it’s served at a barbecue, during holidays, or as a simple weeknight treat, the banana pudding old fashioned recipe stands the test of time. It’s a dessert that fills the kitchen with warmth and invites you to savor each spoonful, indulging in a perfect balance of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers.
In this article, we’re diving into everything you need to know about this classic dessert. From understanding the essential components of the banana pudding old fashioned recipe to mastering its preparation, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll be highlighting the health benefits and the calorie count for those who want to enjoy their dessert guilt-free. Ready to make the best banana pudding of your life? Let’s get started!
The Heart of a Classic Banana Pudding Old Fashioned Recipe
Before we dive into the recipe itself, let’s take a moment to understand what makes the banana pudding old fashioned recipe so special. The magic lies in its simplicity—this dessert doesn’t rely on fancy ingredients or complicated methods. Instead, it celebrates the natural flavors of ripe bananas, creamy custard, and the crunch of vanilla wafers. The banana pudding old fashioned recipe has been passed down through generations, especially in Southern kitchens, and has become a staple in American culinary tradition.
What’s the secret? It’s the balance of textures and flavors. The bananas provide a natural sweetness and creaminess, the pudding adds rich, smooth texture, and the wafers offer the perfect crunch. This trio creates a dessert that is both decadent and comforting—a perfect combination of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Essential Ingredients in a Classic Banana Pudding Old Fashioned Recipe
For any dessert to stand out, it must have the right ingredients, and the banana pudding old fashioned recipe is no exception. Here’s an overview of the ingredients required to create this timeless dish:
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Granulated sugar (divided for different uses) | ¾ cup + 5 tablespoons |
| Cornstarch | 4 ½ tablespoons |
| Whole milk | 3 cups |
| Large egg (room temperature) | 1 |
| Egg yolks (room temperature) | 2 |
| Vanilla extract (divided) | 3 ½ teaspoons |
| Kosher salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Large bananas (sliced) | 5 |
| Vanilla wafers (11 ounces, reserve 8-10 wafers for garnish) | 1 box |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 cup |
Optional Additions:
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavors in your pudding.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for a twist on this traditional dessert.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated fat | 9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Sugars | 24 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Cholesterol | 90 mg |
| Potassium | 330 mg |
| Vitamin C | 10% of daily value |
| Calcium | 10% of daily value |
| Estimated Cost | Price |
|---|---|
| Granulated sugar (1 kg) | $2 |
| Cornstarch (500 grams) | $1 |
| Whole milk (1 liter) | $1.5 |
| Eggs (12 eggs) | $2 |
| Vanilla extract (60 ml bottle) | $4 |
| Kosher salt (500 grams) | $2 |
| Unsalted butter (250 grams) | $3 |
| Bananas (5 bananas) | $2.5 |
| Vanilla wafers (11 ounces) | $3 |
| Heavy whipping cream (1 cup) | $3 |
Total Cost | $23.5 | Cost per serving (8 servings) | $3 |
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Banana Pudding Old Fashioned Recipe
Now that you know what you need, let’s get into how to prepare this dessert. The banana pudding old fashioned recipe is simple but requires a bit of attention to detail for the best results.
Instructions:
Prepare the Pudding Base
- In a medium saucepan, mix together ¾ cup plus 3 tablespoons of sugar, cornstarch, milk, egg, egg yolks, 3 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and salt.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble (about 12 minutes).
- Reduce the heat and mix in the butter, stirring until it is completely melted and blended.
Strain and Cool the Pudding
4. Strain the prepared pudding through a fine-mesh sieve to eliminate any lumps or solids.
5. Place the pudding in the refrigerator for approximately 20 minutes to let it cool slightly.
Layer the Dessert
6. In a 2- or 3-quart casserole dish (11×7 or 13×9 inches), arrange a layer of sliced bananas on the bottom.
7. Place a layer of vanilla wafers over the sliced bananas.
8. Spread a layer of the cooled pudding over the vanilla wafers.
9. Repeat the layers (typically 3 in total) until all ingredients are used, ending with a pudding layer on top.
10. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 6-8 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Prepare Whipped Cream
11. Before serving, chill a mixing bowl and whisk or beaters in the freezer for 20 minutes.
12. Remove the chilled equipment from the freezer and whisk the heavy cream, remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Assemble and Serve
13. Evenly spread the whipped cream over the pudding layer.
14. Crush the reserved vanilla wafers and sprinkle them over the whipped cream for garnish.
15. Serve chilled and enjoy!
The Southern Banana Pudding: A Twist on the Classic
The Southern banana pudding is the heart of the banana pudding old fashioned recipe, with its emphasis on rich, thick pudding and the iconic meringue topping. What sets it apart from other banana puddings is the meringue, which adds a delicate sweetness and a light, airy texture that perfectly complements the creamy pudding.
Here’s how to make it even more Southern:
- Meringue: Beat egg whites with sugar and a pinch of cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Spread this on top of the pudding and bake until golden.
- Layering: The Southern method often calls for adding more pudding than other versions, making it extra rich and indulgent.
Health Benefits of the Banana Pudding Old Fashioned Recipe
You might be thinking, “Is this dessert just a guilty pleasure?” Well, it’s time to ease your mind! While banana pudding is undoubtedly a treat, it can offer a few health benefits too.
1. Bananas:
- Potassium Boost: Bananas are rich in potassium, which is great for heart health, muscle function, and maintaining proper fluid balance.
- Digestive Health: The fiber in bananas helps regulate digestion, preventing bloating and constipation.
2. Whipped Cream or Meringue:
- Protein: The eggs in the meringue and whipped cream provide a small but important source of protein.
3. Calcium and Vitamin D:
- The milk used in the pudding provides essential calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.
Quick and Easy Banana Pudding for Busy Weekdays
Sometimes you want that homemade banana pudding old fashioned recipe, but you’re short on time. No worries! Here’s how to make a quick and easy banana pudding without compromising flavor:
- Use Instant Pudding Mix: Skip the custard-making process and go for instant vanilla pudding mix.
- Skip the Meringue: Use store-bought whipped cream to save time.
- Chill Quickly: If you’re in a rush, you can speed up the chilling process by placing your pudding in the freezer for 1 hour instead of letting it sit overnight.
Even with these shortcuts, you’ll still get that classic banana pudding old fashioned recipe flavor!
Calories and Nutritional Information
It’s always good to know what you’re indulging in, so here’s a rough breakdown of the calories for a classic banana pudding:
- Per serving (1/6 of the recipe):
- Calories: 300-400 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fat: 12g
If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count, consider using lighter options such as sugar-free pudding mix and whipped topping.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS :
Q1: How do I make the banana pudding thicker?
- The key is in cooking the pudding properly. If you’re using instant pudding, make sure to follow the package instructions carefully. For homemade pudding, allow the mixture to thicken over medium heat before assembling your layers.
Q2: Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?
- Yes! In fact, banana pudding tastes even better the next day. Make sure to cover it tightly and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
Q3: Can I use a different kind of wafer?
- Although vanilla wafers are the classic choice, you can try using other cookies such as shortbread or graham crackers for a unique twist. However, the flavor will change.
Conclusion:
The banana pudding old fashioned recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition, a family favorite, and a comforting treat that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this timeless dish will never go out of style. By following this guide, you’ll be able to recreate the perfect banana pudding old fashioned recipe and enjoy the delightful layers of banana, pudding, and vanilla wafers. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a bowl of this delicious dessert today?
We would love to hear your thoughts on this delicious dessert! Share your own twists, tips, or experiences with this recipe in the comments below. Your feedback helps us create even more tasty dishes for you to enjoy. Feel free to let us know if you’ve made any creative additions or substitutions. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen and celebrate the joy of cooking together! Don’t forget to tag us in your photos if you give this recipe a try.