This simple and delicious homemade banana dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in no time. With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward method, this no-bake, no-gelatin dessert is a treat you’ll never get tired of eating. Let’s dive into this creamy, flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 2 bananas
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 30 g (1 oz) sugar
- 100 ml (3.5 fl oz) milk
- 10 g (1 oz) cornstarch
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 30 ml or 1 fl oz)
- 80 g (2.8 oz) condensed milk
- 100 g (3.5 oz) ricotta cheese
- 150 ml (5.3 fl oz) whipping cream
- Cinnamon or cocoa (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Banana Base
- Mash the bananas:
- Peel and mash the 2 bananas in a bowl until smooth. You can use a fork or a potato masher for this step.
- Add lemon juice:
- Mix in the juice of 1 lemon (about 30 ml) with the mashed bananas. The lemon juice will add a tangy flavor and prevent the bananas from browning.
Step 2: Cook the Egg and Milk Mixture
- Prepare the egg mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks, 30 g (1 oz) sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar until the mixture is smooth and pale.
- Heat the milk:
- In a small saucepan, heat 100 ml (3.5 fl oz) milk over medium heat until it begins to steam, but not boil.
- Combine the egg mixture and milk:
- Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. This prevents the eggs from curdling.
- Cook the mixture:
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan. Stir in 10 g (1 oz) cornstarch and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency.
- Cool the mixture:
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Layer
- Whip the cream:
- In a large mixing bowl, whip 150 ml (5.3 fl oz) whipping cream until soft peaks form.
- Mix in the condensed milk and ricotta:
- In another bowl, combine 80 g (2.8 oz) condensed milk with 100 g (3.5 oz) ricotta cheese. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture until fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert
- Layer the banana mixture:
- In individual serving glasses or bowls, spoon the mashed banana mixture into the bottom layer.
- Add the egg custard layer:
- Pour the cooled egg custard mixture over the banana layer, spreading it evenly.
- Top with cream:
- Add the cream mixture on top of the egg custard layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa over the top of the dessert for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.
- Chill the dessert:
- Place the assembled desserts in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Serve the dessert chilled, and enjoy the creamy, fruity layers with a hint of sweetness and tang.
Cook’s Notes
- Bananas: For the best flavor, use ripe bananas that are soft and sweet.
- Cornstarch: Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the milk mixture to avoid any lumps in the custard.
- Cream: Make sure the whipping cream is cold before whipping to achieve the best texture.
Variations
Chocolate Banana Delight
Add a layer of melted chocolate between the banana mixture and custard layer for a richer, more decadent dessert.
Nutty Banana Pudding
Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, between the layers for added crunch and flavor.
Tropical Banana Dessert
Add a layer of crushed pineapple or mango to the banana mixture for a tropical twist.
Vanilla Bean Banana Pudding
Substitute vanilla sugar with fresh vanilla bean seeds for an even more intense vanilla flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dessert a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to serve.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
3. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute, adjusting the amount to taste.
4. What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or mascarpone for a slightly different but equally delicious texture.
5. Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, you can substitute bananas with other soft fruits like mangoes, peaches, or berries for a different flavor profile.
This quick and easy banana dessert is a delightful treat that you can prepare in just 5 minutes. With its creamy layers and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a family treat, this dessert will always bring joy to the table. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe!
