If you're looking for the ultimate nostalgic dessert, this Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding is the perfect treat! Made with layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers, this dish is rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor.

I first made this homemade banana pudding when I wanted a classic Southern dessert that tasted just like grandma’s kitchen. The combination of velvety pudding, soft wafers, and sweet bananas makes it irresistibly delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Made from scratch – No instant pudding, just real, creamy goodness!

✔ Classic Southern dessert – Timeless and always a crowd-pleaser.

✔ Creamy, smooth, and full of banana flavor.

✔ Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or Sunday dinner.

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

For Assembling the Banana Pudding:

For the Meringue Topping (Optional):

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pudding

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and milk until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the milk mixture into the dry ingredients in the saucepan.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Banana Pudding

1. In a 9x9-inch baking dish or serving bowl, layer:

1. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding.

Step 3: Make the Meringue (Optional but Traditional!)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on high speed until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
4. Spread the meringue evenly over the pudding, making sure it touches the edges of the dish (to prevent shrinking).
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

1. Let the banana pudding cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
2. Serve chilled or slightly warm, and enjoy every creamy, banana-filled bite!

Serving & Storage Tips

🍌 For best flavor, make this pudding a few hours ahead to let the flavors meld.