Homemade Banana Pudding

How is banana pudding made from scratch?

Homemade banana pudding starts with vanilla custard made from scratch. It is layered with sweet bananas and crispy vanilla wafers. Then it is all topped with fluffy, toasty meringue. You can even bake a batch of vanilla wafers. And either regular or gluten free cookies can be used.

Make Custard Base

Combine granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the milk. Boil till thickened.

Temper the Eggs

Whisk some of the hot mixture into the egg yolks. While whisking, pour it  back into the remaining mixture in the pot.

Finish the Pudding

Return mixture to the stove and heat until it just begins to bubble. Stir in butter and vanilla.

Start the Layers

Spread a layer of the egg custard evenly across the bottom of a pan, then cover with a layer of wafers.

Finish the Layers

Add bananas and custard. Repeate to make two more layers, finishing with custard.

Make the Meringue

Beat eggs whites to soft peaks. While beating, slowly add granulated sugar and beat to form stiff peaks.

Top WIth Meringue

Spoon the egg white mixture over the top of the custard, spreading to the edges and sealing.

Bake the Pudding

Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned.

Cool and Decorate

Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Sprinkle with more crushed vanilla wafers.

Serve the Pudding

Spoon the chilled homemade banana pudding into serving dishes. Enjoy.

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