Easy Old Fashioned Banana Pudding Recipe

Few desserts capture the taste of Southern comfort like a creamy and homemade easy old fashioned banana pudding recipe. This classic dessert has been passed down through generations, appreciated for its silky pudding base, ripe bananas, and soft vanilla wafers that melt into the layers as they chill. It’s the kind of dessert that feels nostalgic, satisfying, and perfect for both everyday family meals and special occasions.

Jump to Recipe

Unlike store-bought pudding mixes or instant shortcuts, this version uses a traditional stovetop method that creates a richer and more flavorful pudding. The combination of sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and cornstarch produces a silky, smooth texture that transforms the entire dessert. When layered with ripe bananas and vanilla wafers, it becomes a creamy, comforting masterpiece.

If you enjoy classic homemade desserts like this one, you might also love our Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding, a traditional Southern favorite. And if you enjoy chilled, no-bake desserts, try our No-Bake Cheesecake for something equally simple and delicious.

Why This Banana Pudding Recipe Works

This easy old fashioned banana pudding recipe stands out for several reasons:

1. Homemade Pudding Is Superior

Instead of powdered instant pudding, this recipe uses a real stovetop custard made with milk, eggs, and cornstarch. The flavor is deeper, creamier, and authentic.

2. Ripe Bananas Add Natural Sweetness

Ripe bananas blend perfectly with the warm pudding layers, softening slightly as they chill and releasing extra sweetness.

3. Vanilla Wafers Provide Structure

They create a soft cake-like texture as they absorb the pudding while keeping the layers intact.

4. Perfect for Make-Ahead Desserts

This recipe requires chilling, making it ideal for preparing the day before a gathering.

5. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

All ingredients are basic and common, but the result tastes like something from a bakery.

This dessert remains one of the most beloved Southern recipes due to its simplicity and comfort.

Ingredients for the Best Banana Pudding

To prepare this easy old fashioned banana pudding recipe, you’ll need:

Pudding Base

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Layers

• 3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box vanilla wafers
• 1 cup whipped cream (optional)

Each component plays an important role: the pudding creates creaminess, the bananas offer freshness, and the wafers give the dessert its structure.

How to Make Old Fashioned Banana Pudding

1. Cook the Milk Mixture

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, regular milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring often. After 5 to 8 minutes, the mixture should thicken and begin bubbling gently. This is the base of your pudding.

2. Temper the Eggs

Beat the egg yolks in a small bowl. To prevent curdling, pour one spoonful of the hot pudding mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly. Repeat this slowly to warm the eggs.

Then pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan and whisk thoroughly.

3. Add Vanilla and Finish Cooking

Add the vanilla extract and cook everything for another minute until the pudding becomes thick, glossy, and smooth.

At this stage, the pudding should coat the back of a spoon. If it doesn’t, allow it to simmer for an extra minute.

4. Prepare Layers

Use a glass trifle bowl, baking dish, or deep serving bowl.

Layer in this order:

1. Vanilla wafers
2. Banana slices
3. Warm pudding

Repeat until the dish is full and finish with a smooth layer of pudding on top.

5. Chill and Set

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight yields the best results. This allows the wafers to soften and blend with the pudding.

6. Serve

Top with whipped cream if you want extra creaminess. Serve cold and enjoy the rich flavor.

Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding

To make this easy old fashioned banana pudding recipe even better, consider the following tips:

Use Ripe but Firm Bananas

Overripe bananas will become mushy. Select bright yellow bananas with minimal spots.

Stir Constantly While Cooking

This prevents lumps and ensures a silky pudding.

Chill Overnight

The flavor becomes stronger and the texture improves dramatically.

Add Vanilla Last

This preserves its aroma and flavor.

Use High-Quality Wafers

Better wafers absorb pudding evenly and add better flavor.

Variations You Can Try

This easy old fashioned banana pudding recipe is extremely versatile. Try one of these variations:

• Add caramel drizzle between layers for extra sweetness
• Use banana-flavored wafers instead of regular wafers
• Mix in toasted pecans for crunch
• Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding
• Replace whipped cream with homemade meringue for a classic Southern twist

Each version adds a unique touch while keeping the traditional charm.

Serving Suggestions

This banana pudding pairs wonderfully with:

• Fresh berries
• Hot coffee or tea
• Pound cake
• Vanilla ice cream

You can also serve it alongside our highly rated MagmaKitchen desserts:

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

No-Bake Cheesecake

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Storage Instructions

This easy old fashioned banana pudding recipe stores remarkably well:

• Refrigerator: up to 4 days
• Freezer: not recommended (bananas turn mushy)

Cover tightly to prevent moisture loss or fridge odors from affecting taste.

FAQ

Why did my pudding turn lumpy?

Usually caused by not tempering the eggs properly or heating too fast.

Can I use instant pudding instead?

Yes, but it will not have the same creamy, homemade flavor.

How can I keep bananas from browning?

Cover them quickly with pudding, minimizing air exposure.

Can I make banana pudding a day ahead?

Yes this dessert tastes even better the next day.

Conclusion

This easy old fashioned banana pudding recipe brings together everything that makes Southern desserts unforgettable—creamy homemade pudding, sweet bananas, and soft vanilla wafers layered into a perfect chilled treat. Whether you’re preparing it for gatherings or simply craving something homemade and comforting, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

With simple ingredients and classic flavors, this dessert remains a timeless family favorite.