Description
Caramelized banana pudding is an elevated version of the classic banana pudding. It features caramelized bananas that add depth and a rich flavor that’s different from regular banana slices. The bananas are gently sautéed with butter and brown sugar, making them golden and sweet. These caramelized bananas are then layered with a rich, creamy pudding base made with eggs, sugar, and dairy, and paired with vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for added texture.
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Bananas:
3 ripe bananas, sliced into ½-inch rounds
3 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup brown sugar
½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Pudding:
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp cornstarch
3 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For Assembly:
1½ cups vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies
Whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
Optional garnish: extra banana slices, caramel drizzle, or toasted coconut
Instructions
1. Caramelize the Bananas
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture becomes syrupy.
Gently stir in banana slices. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and caramelized but not mushy.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool slightly.
2. Make the Pudding
In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks.
Heat the milk mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken (about 5–7 minutes).
Temper the eggs: slowly whisk about ½ cup of the hot mixture into the yolks, then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
Continue to cook for 2–3 minutes until thick and creamy.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Let it cool slightly (press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin).
3. Assemble
In a trifle dish, glass bowl, or individual cups, layer:
A layer of vanilla wafers
A layer of caramelized bananas
A layer of pudding
Repeat until ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set and allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve
Top with whipped cream, drizzle with caramel sauce, and garnish with banana slices or cookie crumbs.
Notes
For an extra indulgent twist, top your pudding with crushed graham crackers, toasted coconut flakes, or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce just before serving. It also tastes amazing when chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
Keywords: Caramelized banana dessert, creamy banana pudding, banana pudding recipe