Chocolate Banana Pudding
Chocolate Banana Pudding is a rich and creamy Southern classic that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the indulgent texture of chocolate pudding. Layers of vanilla wafers, chocolate pudding, and fresh bananas come together to create a comforting dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re following a traditional recipe or adding your own twists, this pudding is the perfect blend of nostalgic flavors and indulgent textures.
Equipment
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 9x13 inch baking dish or trifle bowl (for layering)
- Whisk for making pudding base
- Sharp knife for slicing bananas
- Refrigerator (for chilling the pudding)
- Stand mixer (optional, for whipping cream)
- Piping bag (optional, for decorative whipped cream topping)
Ingredients
- - **For the Chocolate Pudding Base:**
- - 56 g dark chocolate 55-65% cacao content
- - 180 g whole milk
- - 80 g heavy cream
- - 24 g sugar
- - 2 large eggs
- - **For the Pudding Assembly:**
- - 5-7 ripe bananas sliced
- - 11-12 oz vanilla wafers or Oreo Thins for a twist
- - 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- - 3.4 oz instant chocolate pudding mix
- - 3 cups heavy whipping cream for whipped topping
- - 2-3 tbsp powdered sugar for whipped topping
- - 1 tsp vanilla extract for whipped topping
Instructions
- **Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Base:**
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, and sugar. Once it begins to steam, stir in the chopped dark chocolate and let it melt. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, then slowly temper them with the warm milk mixture, stirring constantly. Return to the saucepan, continue to cook over low heat until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat, let cool, and refrigerate until set.
- **Make the Whipped Cream:**
- Whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- **Assemble the Pudding:**
- In a 9x13 inch dish or trifle bowl, start with a thin layer of chocolate pudding at the bottom. Follow with a layer of vanilla wafers (or Oreo Thins) and a layer of sliced bananas. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous topping of whipped cream. Chill the pudding for at least 3 hours to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.
- **Serve and Garnish:**
- Before serving, top with chocolate shavings, crushed vanilla wafers, or caramel drizzle for added texture and flair.
Notes
- **Banana Tips:** To prevent bananas from turning brown, slice them just before adding them to the pudding or lightly coat them with lemon juice.
- **Cookie Options:** You can swap out traditional vanilla wafers for Oreo Thins for a chocolate twist. Alternatively, graham crackers or shortbread can add an extra layer of flavor.
- **Make-Ahead Tips:** Make the pudding in advance and layer bananas and cookies just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.
- **Cookie Options:** You can swap out traditional vanilla wafers for Oreo Thins for a chocolate twist. Alternatively, graham crackers or shortbread can add an extra layer of flavor.
- **Make-Ahead Tips:** Make the pudding in advance and layer bananas and cookies just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.