Banana Foster Pudding

Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for Bananas Foster Pudding, which combines the classic flavors of Bananas Foster with the creaminess of pudding:

Ingredients:

For the pudding:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Bananas Foster topping:

• 3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup dark rum (optional; omit if not using alcohol)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For assembly:

• Vanilla wafers or graham crackers (optional, for layering)
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

Make the pudding:

1. Heat milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar and cornstarch.
3. Temper the eggs: In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add the warmed milk mixture to the yolks, a little at a time, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. Cook pudding: Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Add the sugar and cornstarch mixture. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the pudding thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Finish with vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly, then cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator.

Prepare the Bananas Foster topping:

1. Cook bananas: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cinnamon until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add bananas: Add the sliced bananas to the skillet and cook until softened and coated in the sauce (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Flambé (optional): If using rum, carefully add it to the skillet. Use a long lighter or match to ignite the alcohol (stand back). Let the flames burn out naturally.
4. Finish: Stir in vanilla extract. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the dessert:

1. In serving glasses or a trifle dish, layer vanilla wafers, pudding, and the Bananas Foster topping.
2. Repeat layers as desired and finish with whipped cream on top.
3. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Enjoy your indulgent Bananas Foster Pudding! 😊