Magnolia Bakery's Famous Banana Pudding Recipe
User Reviews
4.6
Magnolia Bakery's Famous Banana Pudding Recipe
Description
The recipe begins by blending sweetened condensed milk, ice-cold water, and instant vanilla pudding mix, which is then refrigerated to set. Whipped heavy cream is folded into the pudding for a light, airy texture with a velvety mouthfeel. To assemble, layers of vanilla wafers, sliced ripe (but slightly green) bananas, and pudding are alternated in a large dish or individual glasses. Refrigeration for at least four hours lets the flavors blend and softens the wafers to a cake-like consistency.
The dessert balances the sweetness of the pudding and wafers with the mild banana slices. Achieving minimal browning on the bananas is important for presentation; brushing them with lemon juice or rinsing with club soda slows oxidation. Serving soon after assembling keeps the bananas fresh-looking. This layered pudding works well as a make-ahead treat for parties or family meals.
Proper refrigeration helps the texture set, and gentle folding of the whipped cream maintains lightness. The dessert should be covered to avoid drying out and is best enjoyed within hours of preparation to prevent discoloration of the bananas.
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ cups water ice cold
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups banana see note, barely ripe, sliced
- 1 (12 oz.) box nilla wafers
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat together the sweetened condensed milk and water until well combined - about 1 minute. Add the pudding mix and beat well - about 2 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for 3-4 hours or overnight. It is very important to allow the proper amount of time for the pudding mixture to set. It will be watery if you don't let it set up long enough.
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until no streaks of pudding remain.
- Dessert can either be made in individual portions or in a large glass bowl with 4-5 quart capacity (a 9x13 baking dish also works).
- To assemble dessert, arrange 1/3 of the Nilla wafers covering the bottom, overlapping if necessary. Next, layer 1/3 of the bananas, and 1/3 of the pudding mixture. Repeat twice more, garnishing with additional wafers or wafer crumbs on the top layer. Cover tightly and allow to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours - or up to 8 hours, no longer (because bananas will start to brown - see Notes for tips on preventing browning).
Notes
- Select bananas that are barely ripe with slightly green stems to slow browning during assembly and storage.
- Brush banana slices lightly with lemon juice or rinse with club soda to delay oxidation without altering flavor.
- Arrange ingredients tightly and cover dessert to minimize air contact, preserving color and freshness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 15servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1grams |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.