Welcome to our comforting and nostalgic recipes section! Today, we’re sharing a delightful Homemade Banana Pudding recipe. This dessert features layers of moist banana cake, crunchy vanilla wafer toffee, and creamy vanilla bean whipped cream. Perfect for any occasion, this pudding will bring joy to everyone who tastes it. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large bananas, ripened and mashed
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
For the Vanilla Wafer Toffee:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 1/3 cups coarsely chopped vanilla wafer cookies
For the Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar (more or less to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Banana Cake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Bananas and Vanilla: Beat in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add Egg Yolks and Buttermilk: Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add the buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Wafer Toffee
- Melt Butter and Sugar: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the brown sugar, heavy whipping cream, and salt. Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vanilla Wafers: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped vanilla wafer cookies until well coated. Let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream
- Beat Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form.
- Add Vanilla Bean: Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean and add them to the whipped cream. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Assemble the Banana Pudding
- Layer Cake and Toffee: Spread the cooled vanilla wafer toffee evenly over the cooled banana cake.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the vanilla bean whipped cream over the top of the toffee layer, spreading it evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled pudding for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the pudding into squares and serve. Enjoy your Homemade Banana Pudding!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Bananas: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Whipped Cream: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste preference.
Variations
Chocolate Banana Pudding
Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate twist. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Peanut Butter Banana Pudding
Swirl 1/4 cup of peanut butter into the cake batter for a rich, nutty flavor. Top with chopped peanuts for added crunch.
Coconut Banana Pudding
Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the cake batter and top the whipped cream with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flavor.
Berry Banana Pudding
Add a layer of fresh berries (such as strawberries or blueberries) between the toffee and whipped cream layers for a fruity twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this banana pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the banana pudding a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze banana pudding?
It is not recommended to freeze banana pudding as the texture may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
What can I serve with banana pudding?
Serve banana pudding on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
How can I make the pudding healthier?
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, reduce the sugar, and use a sugar substitute suitable for baking to make the pudding healthier.
Homemade Banana Pudding is a delightful and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist banana cake, crunchy vanilla wafer toffee, and creamy vanilla bean whipped cream, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious pudding with your loved ones!
Explore More Recipes
If you loved this Homemade Banana Pudding recipe, be sure to check out our other comforting and nostalgic recipes. Happy baking!