Description
This Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding recipe from scratch replicates the beloved classic dessert featuring layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crisp Nilla wafers. Made with homemade pudding and a luscious whipped cream topping, this dessert is chilled to perfect harmony of flavors and textures, ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pudding Mixture
- 2 tbsp + 2 tsp cornstarch
- 8 tbsp granulated sugar (divided)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Whipped Cream
- 2 cups heavy cream, cold
- 1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
Assembly
- 4 cups mini Nilla wafers
- 4 large ripe bananas
Instructions
- Prepare Cornstarch Mixture: Combine cornstarch, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt together in a small bowl to create a smooth blend for thickening the pudding.
- Whisk Eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk the two large eggs vigorously for 3-4 minutes until they become smooth and fluffy, creating a light base for the pudding.
- Incorporate Cornstarch Mixture: Slowly whisk the cornstarch and sugar mixture into the beaten eggs until completely smooth and well combined without lumps.
- Heat Milk and Sugar: Add whole milk and the remaining 6 tablespoons of sugar to a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-high, simmering gently for about 5 minutes but do not let it boil, allowing the milk to warm thoroughly.
- Temper Eggs: Carefully pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking vigorously to prevent the eggs from curdling and ensure a smooth texture.
- Cook Pudding: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan, add vanilla extract, and cook over medium-high heat. Whisk continuously for 6-7 minutes until the pudding thickens sufficiently.
- Chill Pudding: Remove from heat and transfer pudding into a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding to prevent skin formation. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until fully chilled.
- Whip Cream: In a medium-sized bowl, whip cold heavy cream together with sweetened condensed milk on high speed for about 5 minutes until stiff peaks form, creating a rich and smooth topping.
- Combine Whipped Cream and Pudding: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture until just combined, preserving the light and airy texture. Return to the fridge to keep cold.
- Crush Wafers: Place ¾ cup of mini Nilla wafers into a Ziploc bag and crush into crumbs using a rolling pin or skillet. Set aside for layering.
- Assemble Layers: Start by spreading a thin layer of pudding in the bottom of your serving dish.
- Add Wafers: Layer whole mini Nilla wafers over the pudding, then sprinkle half of the crushed wafer crumbs evenly on top.
- Add More Pudding: Spread a thin layer of pudding over the wafers to create a smooth surface.
- Add Bananas: Arrange a layer of thinly sliced ripe bananas over the pudding.
- Layer Pudding Again: Add another thin layer of pudding on top of the banana slices.
- Repeat Wafers: Add another layer of whole wafers followed by the remaining crushed wafers for texture contrast.
- Final Layers: Top with another thin layer of pudding, followed by the remaining thinly sliced bananas.
- Top with Pudding: Spread the remaining pudding evenly over the last banana layer.
- Decorate and Chill: Finish by decorating with whole wafers. Cover the assembled pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set flavors and texture.
- Serve: Scoop servings into individual dishes and garnish with extra wafers and banana slices as desired. Serve chilled for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Be careful not to let the milk boil when heating to avoid curdling the eggs.
- Cover the pudding surface with plastic wrap while chilling to prevent a skin from forming.
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from becoming mushy in the layers.
- Chilling time is crucial to develop the proper consistency and meld the flavors.
- Gently fold the whipped cream to keep the pudding light and airy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American