ADVERTISEMENT
### Paula Deen’s “Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding: A Southern Classic with a Twist
With layers of vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and a luxurious homemade custard, this version of banana pudding is topped with a fluffy whipped topping that makes each bite pure bliss. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or just because you crave something sweet, Paula Deen’s banana pudding will quickly become a favorite in your home.
—
– **Deliciously Creamy**: The combination of a smooth homemade custard with whipped cream makes this banana pudding decadently creamy.
– **Rich Flavors**: Unlike traditional banana puddings that use instant pudding, Paula’s recipe uses a rich, cooked custard made from scratch. The depth of flavor is undeniable!
– **Easy to Make**: While this banana pudding is a bit more involved than a no-bake version, it’s still simple to put together and only requires a few basic ingredients.
– **Perfect for Any Occasion**: Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or bringing dessert to a potluck, this banana pudding will be the star of the show.
– **Versatile**: You can adapt this recipe by adding your favorite touches, such as chocolate chips or toasted coconut, or keep it classic for that tried-and-true Southern flavor.
—
For the custard:
– **1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk**
– **1 1/2 cups whole milk**
– **1/2 cup sugar**
– **1/4 cup cornstarch**
– **1/4 teaspoon salt**
– **4 large egg yolks**
– **1 tablespoon unsalted butter**
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
For the pudding layers:
– **1 box vanilla wafers**
– **4-5 ripe bananas**, sliced
### How to Make Paula Deen’s “Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding”
#### Step 1: Make the Custard
In a medium saucepan, combine the **sweetened condensed milk**, **whole milk**, **sugar**, **cornstarch**, and **salt**. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Place the saucepan over medium heat, and cook while constantly stirring until the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the **butter** and **vanilla extract**. Let the custard cool slightly before continuing to assemble the pudding.
#### Step 2: Make the Whipped Topping
In a medium bowl, beat the **cream cheese** with a hand mixer until smooth. Add the **whipped topping** and **powdered sugar**, continuing to beat until fluffy and well combined. Set aside.
Add another layer of **vanilla wafers** and **banana slices**, then top with the remaining **custard**. Finish by spreading the **whipped topping** mixture evenly over the top.