Banana Pudding Recipe Oven: The Creamy, Comforting Dessert

Enjoy the ultimate comfort dessert with this classic banana pudding recipe. Layers of sweet banana slices, rich vanilla custard, and golden brown vanilla wafers create a perfect treat for any occasion.

Learn to make delicious baked banana pudding from scratch with a complete recipe, including ingredients, serving size, prep and cook times, and helpful tips for perfection.

Table of Contents

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• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Serving Size and Time Details
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding
• Healthier Alternatives
• Serving Suggestions
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert
• FAQs

1. Introduction: What Makes Baked Banana Pudding Special?

Baking banana pudding takes it to a new level. The oven caramelizes the bananas, creating a richer flavor, and the vanilla wafers soften. The dessert is topped with light meringue, adding a golden, slightly crisp layer, balancing the creamy goodness underneath. It’s like a combination of banana cream pie and warm pudding, all in one delicious dessert!

2. Ingredients for Banana Pudding Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this rich, flavorful banana pudding in the oven:

• For the Custard:
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the Layers:
  • 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 box (12 oz) vanilla wafers
• For the Meringue Topping:
  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

3. Serving Size and Time Details

Serving Size: 6-8 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

 5. Preparing the Custard

Begin by making the homemade custard, which will form the creamy base of the pudding. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly over medium heat. Once the mixture begins to thicken, reduce the heat. In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks and slowly stir in a few tablespoons of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs (this prevents them from scrambling). Then, add the egg mixture back into the saucepan, continuing to stir until the custard is thick and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.

 6. Layering the Bananas and Wafers

Now it’s time to layer! In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers across the bottom. Next, slice the bananas and lay them evenly over the wafers. Pour about half of the warm custard over the bananas and wafers, spreading it out evenly. Repeat with another layer of wafers, bananas, and the remaining custard. Be sure the top is smooth and even.s

 7. Baking the Banana Pudding

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled pudding into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. The goal is to heat everything through and allow the custard to set.

 8. Adding the Meringue Topping

While the pudding is baking, prepare the meringue. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, beating on high speed until stiff peaks form. Remove the pudding from the oven, and gently spread the meringue over the top, sealing it to the edges of the dish. Return the pudding to the oven and bake for another 5-8 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

 9. Cooling and Serving

Once the pudding is out of the oven, let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the custard to firm up slightly. You can serve the pudding warm or refrigerate it for a chilled dessert later on.

 10. Variations on the Classic Recipe

Banana pudding is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to mix it up:

• Chocolate Banana Pudding: Add a layer of melted chocolate or chocolate chips between the bananas and custard.
• Peanut Butter Banana Pudding: Swirl a little peanut butter into the custard for a nutty flavor twist.
• Banana Pudding with Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the banana layers for an extra indulgent treat.

11. Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding

• Choose Ripe Bananas: The bananas should be ripe but not overly mushy. They’ll soften more in the oven, so firmer bananas work best.
• Layer Evenly: Make sure your bananas and wafers are evenly distributed for consistent flavor in each bite.
• Use Whole Milk: For the richest custard, whole milk is essential. It provides a creamy texture that lighter milk won’t deliver.

12. Healthier Alternatives

If you’d like to make your banana pudding a bit lighter, consider these swaps:

• Low-fat Milk: Substitute whole milk with low-fat or almond milk for a lighter custard.
• Sugar Alternatives: Use honey, maple syrup, or a natural sweetener instead of white sugar.
• Whole Grain Wafers: Opt for whole grain vanilla wafers for an added fiber boost.

13. Serving Suggestions

This baked banana pudding is perfect on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate the presentation:

• Toppings: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
• With Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Garnish with Fresh Fruit: A few slices of fresh strawberries or blueberries make a colorful and delicious garnish.

14. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking the Pudding: Keep an eye on the pudding while it bakes, as overbaking can lead to a dry custard. Remove it once the custard is set but still slightly jiggly.
• Undercooking the Meringue: Make sure to bake the meringue until it’s fully golden to avoid a raw, foamy texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Letting the pudding cool before serving allows the flavors to develop fully and makes for a better texture.

15. Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert

There’s something undeniably comforting about banana pudding—especially when it’s baked to perfection in the oven. This creamy, rich dessert is a family favorite, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special event or just as a weeknight treat, this recipe is guaranteed to please every time. Plus, with endless variations and customization options, you can truly make it your own!

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16. FAQs