Banana Pudding With Sweetened Condensed Milk And Heavy Cream
Banana pudding is a beloved classic dessert in the United States. Made with layers of vanilla wafer cookies, fresh bananas, and a creamy pudding filling, it's a staple at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. But have you ever tried making banana pudding with sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream? This variation takes the classic recipe to the next level with a rich, creamy, and indulgent flavor. In this article, we'll walk through step-by-step instructions for making banana pudding with sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream, along with some tips and tricks for perfect results every time.
The Ingredients
Before we get started, let's gather all the ingredients we'll need:
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 boxes vanilla wafer cookies
- 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
You can find all of these ingredients at your local grocery store. Make sure to choose ripe bananas that are just starting to show brown spots - they'll be sweeter and softer, which is perfect for banana pudding.
The Pudding Filling
The key to making the perfect banana pudding with sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream is the pudding filling. Unlike some recipes that use instant pudding mix, we'll be making the pudding from scratch to get the richest flavor and creamiest texture.
Start by whisking together the cornstarch, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually add in the whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Once the mixture is smooth, add in the egg yolks and whisk until well combined.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Assembly
Now that we have our pudding filling, it's time to assemble the banana pudding. Start by arranging a layer of vanilla wafer cookies in the bottom of a large serving dish. Top with a layer of sliced bananas, then pour in a layer of the pudding filling. Repeat the layers until you've used up all of your ingredients, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
Cover the pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together and the pudding to set. Before serving, crush up a few extra vanilla wafer cookies and sprinkle them over the top of the pudding for a crunchy texture.
Tips And Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks for making the perfect banana pudding with sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream:
- Make sure your pudding filling is completely smooth before pouring it in - this will prevent lumps from forming in the finished pudding.
- Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours before serving - this will allow the flavors to meld together and the pudding to set.
- Use ripe, sweet bananas for the best flavor and texture.
- For a fancier presentation, you can layer the ingredients in individual serving dishes instead of one large dish.
- If you're short on time, you can speed up the setting process by placing the pudding in the freezer for 30-60 minutes before serving.
Conclusion
Banana pudding with sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream is a delicious twist on the classic dessert that's sure to impress your friends and family. With its rich, creamy flavor and easy assembly, it's the perfect dessert for any occasion. Use this recipe and our tips and tricks to make the perfect banana pudding every time. Enjoy!