Old Fashioned Banana Pudding – Grandma Baking Recipes

Few desserts are as comforting and beloved as Old Fashioned Banana Pudding. This Southern classic is more than just a dessert — it’s a memory, a tradition, and a taste of home all in one spoonful. With layers of creamy homemade vanilla custard, fresh banana slices, and vanilla wafers, all topped with a light-as-air meringue or whipped topping, this dessert never goes out of style.

Whether you’re serving it at Sunday supper, a family reunion, or just because you need a little taste of nostalgia, banana pudding always brings smiles to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Made from scratch — with real custard, not a pudding mix
Classic flavor that never fails to satisfy
Simple ingredients, but rich in tradition
Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just everyday indulgence

This is the kind of recipe passed down through generations — and for good reason.

Ingredients

For the Custard:

¾ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
3 large eggs, separated
2 cups whole milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Layers:

4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)

For the Meringue (Optional but Traditional):

3 egg whites (reserved from above)
¼ cup granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Make the Custard

In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
Whisk in egg yolks and milkuntil smooth.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a creamy custard (about 10–12 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

💡 Tip: Don’t walk away — constant stirring prevents lumps and scorching!

2. Assemble the Pudding

In a 2-quart baking dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and a generous spoonful of warm custard.
Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of custard on top.

3. Make the Meringue (Optional)

In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form.
Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form and meringue is glossy.
Spread over the top of the pudding, making sure to seal edges of the dish.

4. Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving warm, or chill for at least 2 hours to serve cold.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm for cozy comfort or cold for a refreshing treat.
Top with extra banana slices or crushed vanilla wafersfor added texture.
A drizzle of caramel saucetakes it to the next level (not traditional, but delicious!).

Storage Tips

Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days.
Best enjoyed within 24 hours — bananas can darken over time, but the flavor remains delightful.

Variations

Whipped Cream Topping: Skip the meringue and top with fresh whipped cream instead.
Pudding Shortcut: In a hurry? Use instant vanilla pudding and whipped topping for a faster version (but the homemade custard is worth it!).
Mini Servings: Layer ingredients in mason jars or cups for individual portions.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Old Fashioned Banana Pudding has stood the test of time. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a hug from Grandma — simple, sweet, and made with love. Whether you’re reviving a family tradition or creating a new one, this pudding belongs on your table.