Classic Banana Pudding

Instructions

1. 1

   In a Saucepan, whisk together Granulated Sugar, All-Purpose Flour, and Salt until combined. Gradually whisk in Milk until smooth with no lumps.

2. 2

   Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a Whisk or Wooden Spoon, until it begins to thicken and just starts to bubble — about 8–10 minutes. Don't walk away; the bottom can scorch.

3. 3

   In a small Mixing Bowl, lightly whisk Egg Yolks. Slowly ladle about ½ cup of the hot Milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly (this is called tempering — it prevents the eggs from scrambling). Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the Saucepan while stirring.

4. 4

   Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 2–3 more minutes until the custard is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and reaches about 170°F. Remove from heat.

5. 5

   Stir in Butter and Pure Vanilla Extract until Butter is fully melted and the custard is smooth. For an extra-silky result, pour the custard through a Sieve into a Mixing Bowl. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.

6. 6

   Arrange a single, slightly overlapping layer of Nilla Wafers on the bottom of a Baking Dish (or a large trifle bowl). Use about one-third of the wafers.

7. 7

   Arrange half of Banana slices in an even layer over the wafers. Pour half of the warm custard over the bananas, spreading it gently to the edges with a Spatula.

8. 8

   Repeat with another layer of Nilla Wafers, the remaining Banana slices, and the remaining custard. Finish with a final layer of Nilla Wafers on top.

9. 9

   Press a sheet of Plastic Wrap directly onto the surface of the top wafer layer (this prevents a skin from forming and keeps the wafers from drying out). Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results — the wafers will soften into a dreamy, cake-like texture.

10. 10

    When ready to serve, add Heavy Whipping Cream, Powdered Sugar, and Pure Vanilla Extract to a large Mixing Bowl. Beat with a Hand Mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3–4 minutes. Don't over-beat.

11. 11

    Remove Plastic Wrap from the pudding. Spread or dollop the whipped cream evenly over the top. Garnish with a few extra Nilla Wafers and fresh Banana slices if desired. Serve immediately after topping.