Banana Pudding Recipe With Graham Cracker Crust
Banana pudding with a graham cracker crust is the perfect combination of sweet and crunchy. This classic dessert is a staple in the South, where it’s often served at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations. The creamy, sweet banana pudding contrasts perfectly with the crunchy texture of the graham cracker crust, making it a dessert that’s sure to please everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making the best banana pudding with a graham cracker crust.
The Ingredients:
The ingredients you’ll need for this recipe are:
- 1 box of vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 box of graham crackers
- 2-3 ripe bananas
- 1/2 pint of heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
Make sure to have all your ingredients measured out and prepared before you begin cooking.
Directions:
Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix and milk together until it begins to thicken. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth. Refrigerate this mixture for at least 1 hour to thicken further.
Step 2: Crush the graham crackers in a plastic bag or food processor until they form crumbs. Reserve 1/2 cup of the crumbs for later, and press the remaining crumbs into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish to form a crust.
Step 3: Slice the bananas into thin rounds and layer them on top of the graham cracker crust.
Step 4: Pour the pudding mixture over the bananas, using a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Top with the reserved 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar together until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the pudding mixture.
Step 6: Refrigerate the banana pudding for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set.
Tips and Tricks:
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best banana pudding with a graham cracker crust:
- If you’re short on time, you can use instant vanilla pudding mix instead of the regular kind. Just follow the directions on the box and add in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
- Make sure your bananas are ripe, but not too ripe. You want them to have a slightly firm texture so they hold up well in the pudding.
- For an extra special touch, slice a few extra bananas and layer them on top of the whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.
- If you want to get creative, try adding in some crushed nuts, chocolate chips, or other toppings to the pudding mixture before pouring it over the bananas.
Conclusion:
Banana pudding with a graham cracker crust is a classic dessert that’s sure to please a crowd. With just a few simple ingredients and some preparation, you can create a delicious and indulgent treat that everyone will love. By following these directions and tips, you’re sure to make the best banana pudding with a graham cracker crust ever. Enjoy!
