Bananas Foster Banana Pudding Recipe
Introduction
Bananas Foster Banana Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic Southern dessert, combining creamy vanilla pudding with caramelized bananas and crunchy vanilla wafers. This easy-to-make treat brings a rich, buttery flavor and a touch of cinnamon to every bite.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 package vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk (for pudding)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 sleeve vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the vanilla pudding according to package instructions using the milk. Set the pudding aside to thicken.
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until the sugar dissolves and forms a caramel sauce.
- Step 3: Slice the bananas and add them to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, gently stirring, until the bananas are caramelized but still hold their shape. Remove from heat.
- Step 4: In a serving dish or individual glasses, layer vanilla wafers, a layer of pudding, and then the caramelized bananas. Repeat the layers until ingredients are used, finishing with the bananas on top.
- Step 5: Chill the assembled pudding in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, use homemade vanilla pudding or substitute some milk with cream.
- Add a splash of dark rum to the caramel sauce for a traditional Bananas Foster touch.
- Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture.
Storage
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The wafers may soften but the flavors will deepen. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for the best texture and taste.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bananas for this recipe?
Yes, fresh ripe bananas are essential for caramelizing and achieving the classic Bananas Foster flavor in the pudding.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. Preparing the pudding and caramelized bananas a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just assemble the layers and chill before serving.
PrintBananas Foster Banana Pudding Recipe
This Bananas Foster Banana Pudding is a decadent twist on the classic Southern dessert, combining creamy vanilla pudding with caramelized bananas cooked in butter and brown sugar, layered with crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s a rich, comforting treat perfect for any occasion, featuring luscious textures and warm, spiced flavors chilled to perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
Banana Foster Caramelized Bananas
- 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Vanilla Pudding
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Assembly
- 1 package vanilla wafers (about 45 wafers)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill and firm up.
- Caramelize the bananas: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until the sugar dissolves and begins to bubble. Add the sliced bananas and cook gently for 3-4 minutes, turning carefully to coat them in the caramel sauce, until they are tender and caramelized but not mushy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Layer the pudding: In a clear glass dish or trifle bowl, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers to cover the bottom. Spoon a layer of the chilled vanilla pudding over the wafers, followed by a layer of the caramelized bananas with some sauce. Repeat these layers—wafers, pudding, and bananas—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of pudding or bananas as desired.
- Chill and serve: Cover the assembled pudding and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the wafers to soften and the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or additional vanilla wafers.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to avoid overly mushy texture.
- You can substitute homemade vanilla pudding if preferred.
- Allow the dessert to chill sufficiently to let the vanilla wafers soften and create the classic pudding texture.
- Optional: Add a splash of rum to the caramelizing bananas for an authentic Bananas Foster flavor.
- This dessert can be assembled a day ahead and stored covered in the fridge.
Keywords: Bananas Foster, banana pudding, caramelized bananas, vanilla pudding dessert, Southern dessert, layered pudding
