My Mom’s 4-Ingredient Easy Banana Pudding Recipe: A Quick Guide

Easy recipe for banana pudding

Banana pudding has been a favorite in my family for years. My mom’s recipe is a true treasure. It’s a simple, 4-ingredient banana pudding that’s full of flavor. It’s perfect for any time, whether you’re hosting a family event or just want a comforting treat.

Key Takeaways

• This recipe features just 4 simple ingredients for a quick and easy banana pudding
• The classic Southern flavor and creamy texture make this a family-favorite dessert
• Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a special event
• Passed down from mom, this recipe has been a treasured tradition in our family
• Straightforward preparation with minimal time and effort required

The History Behind This Family-Favorite Banana Pudding

Banana pudding has been a favorite in Southern cuisine since the 19th century. It’s a classic dessert that many families love. It’s passed down through generations, making it a special family tradition.

Origins of Southern Banana Pudding

The story of Southern banana pudding starts after the Civil War. Bananas became popular in the U.S. then. Home cooks started making banana pudding to enjoy this new fruit.

How This Recipe Became Our Family Tradition

In our family, the best banana pudding informational recipe is a long-standing tradition. It was brought to us by my great-grandmother. She got it from her mother, and each generation has made it their own.

The creamy custard, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers are comforting. They remind us of home and bring us together. It’s a dish that makes our gatherings special.

“Banana pudding is more than just a dessert – it’s a time-honored tradition that connects us to our roots and the loved ones who came before us.”

Essential Ingredients for Easy Banana Pudding Recipe

Making a delicious banana pudding with banana pudding is easy with just four simple ingredients. This banana wafer pudding recipe is loved by many. It’s a classic Southern dessert that everyone should try.

The heart of this easy banana pudding recipe with condensed milk includes:

1. Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! Perfectly ripe bananas add natural sweetness and creamy texture.
2. Sweetened Condensed Milk: This rich, thick milk makes the pudding velvety and indulgent, balancing the banana’s flavors.
3. Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, complementing the banana and condensed milk.
4. Vanilla Wafers: These classic cookies add the perfect crunch and texture contrast to the smooth pudding.

With these four simple ingredients, you can make a banana pudding with banana pudding that everyone will love. The key is to use the ripest, most flavorful bananas. Let the other ingredients work their magic to create a truly irresistible dessert.

“This easy banana pudding recipe with condensed milk is a true taste of Southern comfort. The combination of sweet bananas, rich condensed milk, and crunchy vanilla wafers is simply divine.”

Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

To make the perfect homemade banana pudding, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just starting out, the right tools matter a lot.

Basic Kitchen Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dessert:

• A large mixing bowl
• A whisk or hand mixer
• A spatula or wooden spoon
• A saucepan for cooking the custard
• A baking dish or casserole for assembling the pudding

Optional Tools for Presentation

For a fancier look, consider these optional tools:

1. A piping bag and decorative tip for a fancy topping
2. Ramekins or individual serving dishes for a fancy presentation
3. A kitchen torch for a caramelized top (if making a baked version)

Storage Containers

After making your banana pudding, you’ll want to store it right. Use airtight glass or plastic containers. They keep the pudding fresh and prevent it from picking up bad smells or tastes.

With the right tools and storage, you can enjoy homemade banana pudding whenever you want.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Making a delicious easy banana pudding recipe is simple and rewarding. It’s perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen newcomers. This guide will show you how to make a banana pudding recipe easy that everyone will love.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt.
3. Gradually stir in 3 cups of whole milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Set the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water to create a double boiler. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
6. Layer the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with a single layer of vanilla wafers.
7. Slice 4 ripe bananas and arrange them in an even layer over the vanilla wafers.
8. Pour the warm pudding mixture over the bananas, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
9. Add another layer of vanilla wafers on top of the pudding.
10. Refrigerate the easy banana pudding recipe for at least 2 hours, or until the pudding is set and chilled.

This banana pudding recipe easy will quickly become a family favorite. Serve it chilled, topped with crushed vanilla wafers or whipped cream. Enjoy the delightful mix of sweet, creamy, and indulgent flavors.

Tips for Selecting and Ripening Perfect Bananas

Choosing the right bananas is key to making a delicious banana pudding. Look for bananas that are ripe, with spots and a soft feel. Green bananas won’t add the sweetness and creaminess your dessert needs.

Choosing the Right Bananas

For your pudding, pick medium-sized bananas with a golden-yellow color and small brown spots. These bananas are ripe and ready, offering the perfect mix of sweetness and texture. Avoid bananas that are too ripe, with big brown spots, as they can taste bitter.

Ripening Techniques

If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can speed up the process. Put them in a paper bag or wrap them in a clean towel. Leave them at room temperature. The ethylene gas they emit will speed up the ripening process.

You can also place them near ripe fruit like apples or tomatoes. This will help ripen them even quicker.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in your mom’s easy banana pudding recipe?

You’ll need just 4 things: ripe bananas, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and vanilla wafers.

How can I make homemade banana pudding from scratch?

To make this pudding, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and a mix of sweetened condensed milk and vanilla in a dish. It’s easy and doesn’t require cooking.

What’s the best way to ripen bananas for the perfect banana pudding?

Choose bananas that are ripe and spotty for the best taste and texture. If they’re not ripe enough, put them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.

Is it possible to use banana pudding mix instead of preparing it from scratch?

Yes, you can! If you’re short on time, use a box of instant banana pudding mix. It will still have a creamy and delicious flavor.

How long does this easy banana pudding recipe take to make?

This recipe takes only 15-20 minutes to prepare. The hardest part is waiting a couple of hours for it to chill in the fridge before serving.

Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this pudding ahead. Assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The vanilla wafers will soften, making it perfect for serving.

Looking for a twist on the classic banana pudding?

If you love this simple and delicious 4-ingredient banana pudding, you might also enjoy our Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe. This easy, no-bake dessert combines the sweetness of bananas with fresh strawberries for a fun and fruity variation that’s perfect for any occasion. Check out the recipe here!