Southern Comfort Classic Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers

Southern Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers A Classic

By Cameron BlytheSeptember 25, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction: Southern Comfort in a Bowl

Craving a dessert that's both easy and incredibly delicious? Ever think about those classic family recipes? Okay, alright, let's get this show on the road! We are going to make banana pudding with vanilla wafers .

This dreamy dessert hits all the right notes!

What Is Banana Pudding With Vanilla Wafers?

Based on the recipe description for banana pudding with vanilla wafers , it’s a beloved dessert, a true taste of the American South.

This classic banana pudding is more than just a recipe; it's a memory. You can throw it together in about 25 minutes, plus chilling time.

This recipe makes 8 servings.

Why This Recipe Rocks

Honestly, the best thing is how simple it is. Plus, it's a crowd pleaser. Think summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. This easy banana pudding recipe is guaranteed to disappear fast!

Time to Talk Ingredients

Let's dive into what makes this Nilla wafer dessert so special.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let’s Get This Show on the Road!

Southern Comfort Classic Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers presentation

Okay, alright, let's get this show on the road ! I'm gonna share what you need to make the best banana pudding with vanilla wafers ever.

Seriously, this banana pudding with vanilla wafers recipe is a classic, a real Southern dessert recipes staple. I'm talking Nilla wafer dessert heaven.

Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter

Time to whip up some SEO magic! Here's what you'll need, measured out just right. Based on the recipe description for banana pudding with vanilla wafers, and keeping that sweet Southern comfort in mind, here's the list.

For the Pudding:
- Milk: 2 cups (475ml). Whole milk makes it creamy, y'all!
- Sugar: ¾ cup (150g). Adjust to your sweet tooth, if you like.
- Cornstarch: ¼ cup (30g). This is what thickens it up.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon (1.5ml). Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
- Egg Yolks: 2 large . These add richness.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Unsalted, for pure flavour.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Don't skimp on the vanilla!
For Assembly:
- Vanilla Wafers: 1 (12-ounce/340g) box . Nilla Wafers are the bomb!
- Bananas: 3-4 medium . About 2 cups (475ml) sliced.
- Whipped Cream (Optional): To top it all off.

Make sure your bananas are ripe but not mushy. You know? The perfect balance of sweet and firm.

Seasoning Notes: That Extra Zing!

This easy banana pudding recipe doesn't need tons of spices. Good vanilla is key. A little cinnamon on top? Chef's kiss .

Honestly, I like a tiny bit of nutmeg in the pudding itself sometimes, but that's just me. I used to make a homemade vanilla pudding with my grandma, she loved the Old fashioned banana pudding , her Best banana pudding , she said that her secret was using real vanilla bean.

For a simple flavor enhancer, try a dash of banana liqueur.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

Don't need fancy stuff here! This classic banana pudding is all about ease. This layered banana pudding is the definition of a Quick dessert recipes .

Saucepan: Medium size, if you're making pudding from scratch.
Whisk: Gotta whisk that pudding!
Mixing Bowls: For prep work.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy is your friend.
Baking Dish: A 9x13 inch (23x33cm) dish is perfect.

Don't have a whisk? A fork will do in a pinch. No baking dish? Use a trifle bowl or individual cups for banana pudding variations .

Southern Comfort: Nailing That Banana Pudding

Okay, alright, let's get this show on the road! We're diving headfirst into a classic: banana pudding with vanilla wafers .

It's Southern comfort food at its finest. This isn't just a recipe; it's a trip down memory lane!

Honestly, based on the recipe description for "banana pudding with vanilla wafers," there's nothing quite like it. Time to whip up some SEO magic, just like Grandma used to whip up that pudding! It's dead easy, really.

Prep Steps: Gettin' Sorted

First, the essential mise en place . Basically, that's French for "get your act together before you start cooking." Slice your 3-4 medium ripe bananas not too mushy, mind you and have that 1 (12-ounce/340g) box of Nilla wafers ready to roll.

Make sure you have your 2 cups (475ml) whole milk, ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar, ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch, ¼ teaspoon (1.

5ml) salt, 2 large egg yolks, 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract all measured out.

Time saving tip : Get the kids to help layer! It keeps 'em busy and it's hard to mess up!

The Pudding Process

Whisk together the 2 cups (475ml) whole milk, ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar, ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon (1.5ml) salt in a saucepan.
Stir in those 2 large egg yolks .
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This should take around 5 minutes .
Take it off the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract .
Layer it all up! Nilla wafers, banana slices, pudding, repeat.
Make sure you end with pudding on top.
Cover and chill for at least 2 hours . Overnight is even better!

Visual cue? The pudding should be thick and creamy, coating the back of a spoon.

Pro Tips: The Secret Sauce

Want to really knock their socks off? Try browning the bananas in butter before adding them.

Common mistake? Using unripe bananas. They just don't have the same sweetness.

This banana pudding with vanilla wafers can be made a day ahead. It gives the flavors time to really meld together, which is what you want.

Honestly, making this is easier than watching paint dry. So grab those ingredients, get layering, and get ready for a taste of pure Southern happiness.

Enjoy your Nilla wafer dessert and your classic banana pudding!

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**Recipe Notes: Making the Best Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers**

Okay, alright, let's get this show on the road! Time to whip up some SEO magic, just like Grandma used to whip up that banana pudding with vanilla wafers ! Honestly, this recipe is more than just ingredients.

It is pure Southern comfort. It's Nilla wafer dessert heaven, I tell you.

Plating and Presentation Ideas

Why not get fancy? Layer your classic banana pudding in a trifle bowl for a show stopping centerpiece. Or, for individual servings, use mason jars.

They're cute. Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Simple, yet elegant!

Complementary Sides or Beverages

This dessert pairs perfectly with a glass of sweet iced tea, or lemonade. For something a little different, try it with a light bodied white wine.

It also goes down a treat alongside a slice of pecan pie!

Refrigeration Guidelines

This easy banana pudding recipe needs time to chill. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it against the surface of the pudding.

This stops a skin from forming. You'll want to refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Overnight is even better!

Freezing Options

I wouldn't recommend freezing this. The texture of the pudding and bananas can change. The vanilla wafers will get soggy. Fresh is always best!

Reheating Instructions

This is a cold dessert, love! No reheating needed. Just grab a spoon and dig in.

Dietary Adaptations

Want a sugar-free version? Use sugar-free vanilla pudding mix and a sugar substitute in your homemade vanilla pudding . You can also substitute whole milk with 2% milk.

Just note the pudding may not be as rich.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

While bananas are available year round, consider adding seasonal fruit. Sliced strawberries or blueberries in the summer are amazing.

Nutrition Basics

Each serving contains roughly 320 calories. It has about 5g of protein, 12g of fat, and 50g of carbohydrates. Remember this varies with ingredients used.

Bananas provide potassium. This is a key health benefit.

So, there you have it. With these tips, you're ready to make the best banana pudding ever. Remember, it's all about love and a little bit of patience.

Now, go on and create some sweet memories!

Best Banana Pudding Classic Southern Nilla Wafer Delight

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make banana pudding with vanilla wafers ahead of time? Like, a day or two before I need it?

Absolutely! In fact, banana pudding with vanilla wafers is even better when made a day in advance. This allows the vanilla wafers to soften perfectly and the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing gently on the surface, and store it in the fridge.

My bananas always turn brown in my banana pudding. What am I doing wrong? Is there a solution to prevent this?

Browning bananas are a common woe, almost as bad as soggy bottoms on The Great British Bake Off! A simple trick is to toss your banana slices with a little lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering them into your banana pudding with vanilla wafers.

The acidity helps prevent oxidation, keeping your bananas looking fresh and appetizing for longer.

Can I use instant pudding mix instead of making the pudding from scratch?

You certainly can! While homemade pudding adds a certain je ne sais quoi, using instant pudding mix is a totally acceptable shortcut for banana pudding with vanilla wafers, especially if you're short on time. Just follow the instructions on the package, and you'll be good to go.

No one will be able to tell the difference, it will still be delicious!

How long does banana pudding with vanilla wafers last in the fridge?

Banana pudding with vanilla wafers is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making it. After that, the bananas may start to get a bit too soft and the wafers might become overly soggy. So, tuck in!

I'm looking for a healthier version of banana pudding with vanilla wafers. Any suggestions?

To lighten things up, you can use a sugar-free vanilla pudding mix and substitute the whole milk with a lower fat option like 2%. You could also use a sugar substitute in homemade pudding. Another good idea is to use less vanilla wafers or try a whole wheat alternative, although that can impact the flavour.

You can also skip the whipped cream topping or use a light version. These simple swaps will make a noticeable difference in the overall calorie count without sacrificing too much of that classic banana pudding flavor!