Banana Foster Pudding

Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture: Separate the egg yolks from the whites and place the yolks in a large bowl. Whisk in the sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork, then mix them into the egg yolk mixture.
3. Combine with Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to ensure a smooth consistency.
4. Dissolve Cornstarch: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 20ml of milk until fully dissolved, then stir it into the pudding mixture.
5. Cook the Pudding: Transfer the mixture to a pot and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent lumps. Cook for about 10 minutes or until thickened.
6. Set the Pudding: Divide the pudding into four dessert cups and let them cool to set.
7. Make Bananas Foster: Melt butter in a pan, add sugar, and stir until caramelized. Slice the banana, add it to the caramel, and coat well.
8. Assemble: Spoon the Bananas Foster over the pudding cups, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

Variations

For a lighter version, you can use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk. This substitution works well for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

If you love extra texture, consider adding crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers between the pudding layers. This adds a nice crunch and enhances the overall experience. You could also mix in a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.

For an adult twist, add a splash of rum or bourbon to the Bananas Foster while caramelizing the sugar. This gives the dessert a deeper, more complex flavor, perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and smooth texture.
• Stir the pudding constantly while cooking to avoid lumps and ensure even thickening.
• If the pudding thickens too quickly, remove it from heat and whisk in a little extra milk to adjust the consistency.
• For a smoother pudding, strain the mixture through a fine sieve before cooking to remove any banana lumps.
• Let the caramel cool slightly before topping the pudding to prevent it from melting the custard.
• If you prefer a thicker caramel, cook the sugar a bit longer until it reaches a deeper amber color.
• Chilling the pudding for at least 3 hours is essential for the perfect texture.
• Garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving for an elegant touch.
• If making ahead, cover the pudding with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

How to Store

This banana pudding is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making it. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

The Bananas Foster topping may soften over time, but it will still taste delicious.

If you need to store it longer, you can freeze the pudding (without the topping) for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and add fresh Bananas Foster before serving.

Avoid leaving the pudding at room temperature for more than an hour, as dairy-based desserts can spoil quickly. Always cover it well to prevent absorbing other odors from the fridge.

Conclusion

This Banana Pudding with Bananas Foster topping is a delightful dessert that combines creamy custard with rich, caramelized bananas.

It’s simple enough for home bakers yet impressive enough for special occasions. The layers of flavor and texture make it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dessert is sure to become a favorite. Serve it chilled, and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess in every bite. Happy cooking!