There’s something truly heartwarming about the layered goodness of Banana Pudding, especially when it’s made from scratch. I still recall the delightful surprise I felt when I first discovered a gluten-free, dairy-free version that didn’t skimp on flavor or nostalgia. This pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, bringing together fresh bananas and creamy custard, all tucked between crisp, homemade wafers.
As cooler days approach and the world turns to more comforting fare, there’s no better time to whip up this luscious treat. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just indulging solo after a long day, this Banana Pudding recipe is a sweet escape. Plus, with its simple-to-follow steps and wholesome ingredients, you can create something special without the hassle—perfect for anyone craving a break from fast food. Dive into this easy, guilt-free dessert that’s sure to impress and satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth!
Why will you love Banana Pudding?
Decadent layers of flavor: This Banana Pudding is filled with rich custard, freshly sliced bananas, and crisp homemade wafers, creating a delightful treat that speaks to the soul.
Health-Conscious and comforting: Enjoy a dessert that’s both gluten-free and dairy-free without sacrificing taste.
Quick to prepare: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can savor this delectable dessert sooner than you think.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, everyone will love this nostalgic and creamy delight!
Versatile option: Serve it chilled, topped with cacao powder or crushed cookies for an elevated touch. You can easily whip up this delightful dessert in your own kitchen!
Banana Pudding Ingredients
• Create a blissful dessert with these wholesome ingredients.
For the Wafers
- Vegan butter – soft, for a rich and creamy base that enhances flavor.
- Maple sugar – powdered, adds natural sweetness to the wafers.
- Large egg – room temperature, helps bind the ingredients together for structure.
- Large egg white – room temperature, lightens the batter for crispier wafers.
- Gluten-free pastry flour mix – provides a perfect texture without gluten.
- Coconut milk powder – adds a subtle tropical flavor and creaminess.
- Vanilla extract – gluten-free, infuses warmth and depth to the batter.
- Vanilla bean powder – or substitute 1 tsp vanilla extract for extra aromatic notes.
- Baking soda – helps the wafers rise for delightful crispness.
- Sea salt – a pinch enhances the overall flavors of your banana pudding.
For the Custard
- Non-dairy milk – 3 cups, any variety will work to create a creamy base.
- Egg yolks – room temperature, enriches the custard’s texture and richness.
- Maple sugar – powdered, sweetens the custard with a lovely caramel hint.
- Arrowroot flour – this thickens the custard while keeping it light and creamy.
- Vegan butter – adds the finishing touch of creaminess to the custard.
- Salt – a pinch balances the flavors beautifully.
For the Topping
- Bananas – freshly sliced, bring a burst of freshness and sweetness to each layer.
- Cacao powder or crushed wafer cookies – sprinkle on top for a touch of elegance just before serving.
Dive into this Banana Pudding recipe and relish each delightful layer of flavor!
How to Make Banana Pudding
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Preheat your oven: Set it to 325°F (165°C) so it’s ready to bake those delicious wafers.
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Cream the butter: In a large bowl, combine the softened vegan butter with half of the powdered maple sugar. Blend until smooth and dissolved.
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Mix the eggs: In another bowl, whisk together the room-temperature egg and egg white with the remaining maple sugar until smooth. Gradually combine this with the butter mixture until fully integrated.
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Add dry ingredients: Stir in the vanilla extract, coconut milk powder, a pinch of salt, and half of the gluten-free flour. Combine thoroughly, then mix in the remaining flour until the batter is smooth and inviting.
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Scoop and shape: Use a teaspoon to drop dollops of batter onto a parchment-covered baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart for optimal baking.
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Bake the wafers: Place the sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are golden brown. Once done, allow them to cool completely.
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Heat the non-dairy milk: On medium heat, warm your choice of non-dairy milk in a saucepan until it’s almost boiling.
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Combine egg yolks and sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the room-temperature egg yolks, maple sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
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Temper the eggs: Gradually pour half of the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking to gently warm the eggs. Then, return the tempered mixture back to the saucepan.
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Cook the custard: Over moderately low heat, stir constantly for 5-8 minutes until the mixture thickens. Avoid boiling to keep it smooth.
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Finish the custard: Remove from heat and stir in the vegan butter until melted. Then chill it in a bowl set in ice water. Cover with plastic wrap to keep a skin from forming and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours.
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Assemble the pudding: In a 3qt, 9×13 inch glass dish, begin layering the wafers, spreading a thin layer of custard over them, and topping with freshly sliced bananas.
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Repeat layers: Continue layering with wafers, custard, and bananas until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of custard on top.
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Chill further: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4-5 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve with flair: Just before serving, sprinkle with cacao powder and/or crushed wafer cookies. Slice the pudding and enjoy it cold!
Optional: Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra warm touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding
Quality Ingredients: Always choose ripe bananas and high-quality non-dairy milk to enhance the flavor of your Banana Pudding.
Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing, as this helps them blend more smoothly for better texture.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the wafer cookies while baking; they should be golden but not too brown to maintain the perfect crunch.
Layering Technique: For even distribution of flavor, layer the banana slices evenly among the custard and wafers—this helps every bite to be equally delicious.
Chill Time: Be patient! Refrigerate your Banana Pudding for the full 4-5 hours or overnight for optimal flavor and texture development.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Pudding
Fridge: Keep your Banana Pudding stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the Banana Pudding for up to 2 months. However, the texture of the bananas might change, so it’s best to add them fresh after thawing.
Reheating: If serving cold, simply take the Banana Pudding out of the fridge and enjoy! If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid reheating in the microwave to preserve the texture.
Serving Tip: Refresh your Banana Pudding before serving by topping with freshly sliced bananas and a sprinkle of cacao powder or crushed wafers to liven it up!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Pudding layers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delectable dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the wafers and custard up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the wafers and store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp. The custard can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before serving. When you’re ready to assemble, layer the wafers, custard, and sliced bananas in a dish, and let it chill for at least 4-5 hours or overnight for the best flavor. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress family and friends with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Banana Pudding?
To make your indulgent dessert shine even brighter, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your serving experience.
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Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of this light and airy cream adds a luscious touch that complements the banana and custard beautifully. Its hint of coconut echoes flavors in the pudding.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries brings a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness and adding vibrant color.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkling a bit of granola adds crunch and earthiness, enhancing the pudding’s texture while offering a wholesome, satisfying bite.
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Chilled Iced Tea: A glass of refreshing iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, serves as a perfect beverage to cleanse the palate between bites.
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Espresso or Coffee: A small cup of espresso or a warm coffee balances the sweetness and provides a cozy ending to your dessert experience.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A rich drizzle of dark chocolate sauce adds an exciting layer of flavor richness to your pudding. It plays nicely with the bananas, allowing a wonderful flavor depth.
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Vanilla Almond Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside the banana pudding for a delightful twist, creating an unforgettable combination of flavors and temperatures.
Elevate your gathering with these delicious side delights that will have everyone coming back for more!
Banana Pudding Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these delightful adaptations that will make your Banana Pudding even more exciting!
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Nutty Joy: Add crushed walnuts or pecans between layers for a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.
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Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Swirl in melted dairy-free chocolate when mixing the custard, creating a decadent chocolate-banana fusion.
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Extra Creamy: Substitute half of the non-dairy milk with coconut cream for a richer and creamier texture. The lusciousness is simply irresistible!
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Fruit Fiesta: Incorporate other fruits like strawberries or mango slices along with the bananas for a refreshing twist that elevates the flavor profile.
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Spiced Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mix for a warm spice that complements the bananas beautifully.
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Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of maple sugar for a low-calorie version that’s equally satisfying.
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Zesty Lemon: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the custard for a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness.
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Tropical Escape: Add toasted coconut flakes to the layers for a decadent tropical vibe that transports you to sun-soaked shores.
Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Banana Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for Banana Pudding?
Absolutely use ripe bananas that are slightly speckled for the best flavor and sweetness. Avoid overly mushy bananas, as they can turn your pudding too watery. Freshness is key here!
How should I store leftover Banana Pudding?
It’s best to keep your Banana Pudding stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its creamy texture for up to 3 days. Just remember to cover the top with plastic wrap to prevent any drying out!
Can I freeze Banana Pudding?
Yes, you can freeze your Banana Pudding for up to 2 months. However, to maintain the best texture, it’s recommended to freeze the custard and wafers without bananas. Add fresh banana slices just before serving after thawing the custard in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if my custard doesn’t thicken properly?
No worries! If your custard hasn’t thickened, it could be due to cooking at too high a temperature or not stirring enough. If this happens, try returning it to the saucepan on low heat, adding a little extra arrowroot flour mixed with a splash of cold milk to aid thickening, and stir constantly until you reach that perfect creamy consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for individuals with allergies?
Yes! This Banana Pudding recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten and dairy allergies. However, always double-check your ingredients, especially the non-dairy milk and flour, to ensure they are free from cross-contamination. Enjoy worry-free!
How long does banana pudding last at room temperature?
The more the merrier when it comes to time! If left out at room temperature, it’s best to serve and enjoy your Banana Pudding right away. If it must sit out, aim to enjoy it within 2 hours to keep everything safe and fresh.
Deliciously Creamy Banana Pudding You Can’t Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large bowl, combine softened vegan butter with half of the powdered maple sugar, and blend until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the room-temperature egg and egg white with the remaining maple sugar until smooth. Combine with the butter mixture.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, coconut milk powder, a pinch of salt, and half of the gluten-free flour. Mix in the remaining flour until smooth.
- Drop dollops of batter onto parchment-covered baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
- Heat non-dairy milk in a saucepan until almost boiling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks, maple sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Gradually pour half of the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking to gently warm the eggs. Return back to saucepan.
- Over moderately low heat, stir constantly for 5-8 minutes until thickened. Avoid boiling.
- Stir in vegan butter until melted, then chill in a bowl set in ice water. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
- In a 3qt, 9x13 inch glass dish, layer wafers, custard, and freshly sliced bananas.
- Continue layering until all ingredients are used, ending with custard on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for 4-5 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, sprinkle with cacao powder or crushed cookies. Enjoy cold!
