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:
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3 ripe bananas, sliced into ½-inch rounds
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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¼ cup brown sugar
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½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
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Pinch of salt
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Pudding:
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup granulated sugar
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3 tbsp cornstarch
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3 large egg yolks
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
For Assembly:
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1½ cups vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies
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Whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
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Optional garnish: extra banana slices, caramel drizzle, or toasted coconut
Instructions
1. Caramelize the Bananas
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In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture becomes syrupy.
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Gently stir in banana slices. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and caramelized but not mushy.
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Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool slightly.
2. Make the Pudding
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In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
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Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
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In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks.
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Heat the milk mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken (about 5–7 minutes).
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Temper the eggs: slowly whisk about ½ cup of the hot mixture into the yolks, then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
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Continue to cook for 2–3 minutes until thick and creamy.
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Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
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Let it cool slightly (press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin).
3. Assemble
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In a trifle dish, glass bowl, or individual cups, layer:
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A layer of vanilla wafers
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A layer of caramelized bananas
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A layer of pudding
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Repeat until ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set and allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve
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Top with whipped cream, drizzle with caramel sauce, and garnish with banana slices or cookie crumbs.
Notes
- 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