Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding from Scratch: A Classic Southern Dessert
Few desserts capture comfort, nostalgia, and pure homemade goodness quite like old-fashioned homemade banana pudding from scratch. This is the kind of dessert that shows up at family reunions, Sunday dinners, church potlucks, and holiday tables—always familiar, always welcomed, and always finished to the last spoonful.
What sets this recipe apart from modern shortcuts is the custard. No boxed mixes here. Instead, we’re making a real vanilla pudding the traditional way, cooked gently on the stovetop until thick, silky, and deeply flavorful. When layered with ripe bananas and soft vanilla wafers, the result is a classic banana pudding dessert that tastes exactly the way it should—rich, creamy, and comforting without being heavy.
This pudding isn’t about trends or shortcuts. It’s about slowing down just enough to do things the old-fashioned way and being rewarded with a dessert that feels like home.
Why Banana Pudding Is a Southern Staple
Banana pudding earned its place in Southern kitchens thanks to its simplicity and accessibility. Bananas, milk, sugar, eggs, and cookies were easy to find, affordable, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Over time, this humble dessert became iconic.
A true southern banana pudding recipe is defined by layers—creamy custard, fresh fruit, and cookies that soften into tender, cake-like bites as the pudding rests. Each spoonful delivers contrast and balance: sweet bananas, smooth custard, and just enough texture to keep things interesting.
Ingredients
- Whole milk
- Granulated sugar
- Cornstarch
- Salt
- Egg yolks
- Unsalted butter
- Pure vanilla extract
- Ripe bananas
- Vanilla wafers
- Whipped topping or freshly whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and fully combined.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble gently.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
- Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the custard is thick and glossy.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Let the custard cool slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
- In a serving dish or individual cups, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and warm custard.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with custard on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Old-Fashioned Homemade Banana Pudding from Scratch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan, then add milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Temper egg yolks and return them to the saucepan.
- Cook until smooth and glossy, then remove from heat.
- Stir in butter and vanilla extract.
- Layer wafers, bananas, and custard in a dish.
- Chill before serving for best texture.
Notes
The Secret to Extra-Creamy Banana Pudding
The magic of homemade banana pudding from scratch comes from patience. Cooking the custard slowly allows it to thicken properly without becoming grainy. Tempering the eggs carefully keeps the pudding smooth, while real butter and vanilla add richness and depth.
Chilling the pudding is just as important. As it rests, the flavors meld and the cookies soften, transforming into tender layers that make every bite irresistible.
Choosing the Best Bananas
For the best flavor and texture, use bananas that are ripe but not mushy. Look for bright yellow peels with a few brown speckles. Overripe bananas can become too soft and overpoweringly sweet once layered into the pudding.
Delicious Variations
- Baked Banana Pudding: Top with meringue and bake briefly until golden.
- Individual Banana Pudding Cups: Perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Extra Vanilla Flavor: Use vanilla bean paste for deeper aroma.
- Cookie Swap: Try butter cookies or shortbread for a richer base.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy vanilla banana pudding is best served chilled. Pair it with hot coffee, iced tea, or a cold glass of milk. For special occasions, add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of crushed wafers on top.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Banana pudding is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance for the best texture. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bananas may darken slightly, but the flavor remains delicious.
A Dessert That Never Fails
There’s a reason old-fashioned banana pudding has stood the test of time. It’s comforting, reliable, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe delivers that unmistakable taste of tradition—simple ingredients turned into something truly special.
