Southern Banana Pudding

Here’s a classic Southern Banana Pudding recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the Pudding:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 3/4 cups whole milk
  • 4 large egg yolks, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For Assembly:
  • 1 box (12 oz) vanilla wafer cookies
  • 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• For the Meringue (optional):
  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Make the Pudding:
   1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
   2. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
   3. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture starts to thicken and comes to a boil.
   4. Continue to cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
   5. Whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks to temper them, then return the egg mixture to the saucepan.
   6. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the pudding is thick and smooth.
   7. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
   8. Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. Assemble the Dessert:
   1. In a 2-quart baking dish or trifle dish, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
   2. Top with a layer of banana slices.
   3. Spoon a layer of pudding over the bananas.
   4. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
3. Make the Meringue (Optional):
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   2. In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
   3. Gradually add the sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
   4. Spread the meringue over the pudding, making sure to seal the edges to prevent it from separating during baking.
4. Bake:
   1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
   2. Let it cool to room temperature before serving.

Enjoy your classic Southern Banana Pudding!