Description
This dessert layers creamy vanilla custard, caramelized bananas cooked in a brown sugar and rum sauce, and classic vanilla wafers, all topped with whipped cream.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Custard:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Bananas Foster:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 ripe bananas, sliced into rounds
- 1/3 cup dark rum
For Assembly:
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, milk, and half-and-half.
- In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
- Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the milk mixture until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Bananas Foster:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar and cinnamon; cook until bubbly.
- Add banana slices and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, coating them in the sugar mixture.
- Carefully add the rum and, using a long match, ignite to flambé. Baste the bananas with the sauce until the flames subside. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Dessert:
- In a 3-quart baking dish or a 9×13-inch pan, layer one-third of the vanilla wafers on the bottom.
- Top with one-third of the banana mixture, followed by one-third of the custard.
- Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with custard on top.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until it begins to thicken.
- Add granulated sugar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Serve:
- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled banana pudding.
- Garnish with additional vanilla wafers if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Ensure all alcohol has burned off during the flambé process, especially if serving to children.
- This dessert can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop further.