Homemade Banana Pudding

Homemade banana pudding is a classic and comforting dessert that combines layers of creamy pudding, sliced bananas, and vanilla wafers.

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
• Approximately 40-50 vanilla wafers
• Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg yolks until well combined.
3. Gradually pour the milk and egg mixture into the saucepan with the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a low boil. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the pudding in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until completely cooled.
7. Once the pudding has chilled, assemble the banana pudding. In a serving dish or individual cups, layer the vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
8. Cover the assembled pudding and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together and the wafers to soften.
9. Just before serving, you can garnish the banana pudding with whipped cream and additional vanilla wafers if desired.
10. Serve and enjoy the homemade banana pudding!

Note: You can also enhance the flavor of your banana pudding by adding a layer of meringue on top and browning it in the oven for a few minutes. This is an optional step if you prefer a meringue-topped pudding.