About this recipe

A Southern classic that never goes out of style — layers of silky homemade vanilla custard, ripe bananas, and crisp Nilla wafers that soften into tender, cake-like layers as it chills. This from-scratch version is rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying, topped with billowy whipped cream. It's the kind of dessert that disappears at every potluck, holiday table, or Sunday dinner.

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.