# What You'll Need:
→ Pudding Base
01 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
02 - 1/4 cup cornstarch
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 3 cups whole milk
05 - 4 large egg yolks
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
→ Assembly Components
08 - 1 (12 oz) box vanilla wafers (about 45-50 cookies)
09 - 4 medium ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
→ Whipped Topping
10 - 1 cup heavy cream
11 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
12 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 - Whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the milk until completely smooth and no lumps remain.
02 - Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or heat-proof spatula. Cook until the mixture thickens considerably and just begins to bubble, approximately 6-8 minutes.
03 - Lightly beat the egg yolks in a separate bowl. Gradually whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to warm them gently. Return the tempered yolk mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
04 - Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding becomes very thick and glossy. Remove from heat immediately and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
05 - Transfer the pudding to a clean bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, approximately 1 hour.
06 - In a 2- to 2.5-quart serving dish or trifle bowl, create the first layer by arranging one-third of the vanilla wafers across the bottom. Top with one-third of the banana slices, followed by one-third of the chilled pudding. Repeat this layering process two more times, ending with pudding as the top layer.
07 - Cover the assembled pudding tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften slightly. The dessert can be made up to 24 hours in advance.
08 - Just before serving, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat until soft peaks form and the cream holds its shape when lifted.
09 - Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top layer of pudding. Optionally garnish with additional vanilla wafers or fresh banana slices. Serve the banana pudding chilled for the best texture and flavor.
