Banana Pudding Trifle

There’s something truly magical about a Banana Pudding Trifle. I still remember the first time I tasted this layered dessert at a family gathering. My aunt had whipped up an enormous bowl of it, and as soon as I laid my eyes on those delightful layers of creamy pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy wafers, my heart skipped a beat. That perfect blend of textures—smooth, creamy, and crispy—was utterly irresistible. As I dug my spoon in, the taste of sweet bananas combined with rich, homemade pudding wrapped me in a warm embrace of nostalgia. It instantly took me back to summers spent in my grandmother’s kitchen where she’d prepare desserts that were filled with love and happiness. This Banana Pudding Trifle isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration of those cherished moments.

What’s In This Banana Pudding Trifle

The ingredients in this Banana Pudding Trifle come together to create a beautifully layered dessert that is as delicious as it is visually appealing. Each component plays an important role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• 4 tablespoons sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream to make it light and fluffy.
• 2 cups heavy cream – Forms the creamy base of the dessert, lending richness to the pudding.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a fragrant note that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup sugar – Essential for the pudding, ensuring it’s sweet and delightful.
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch – Thickens the pudding, giving it that velvety texture.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 3 cups whole milk – Forms the creamy base of the pudding, enriching its flavor.
• 4 large egg yolks – Provide richness and help thicken the pudding.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds a creamy, rich flavor to the pudding.
• 1½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the vanilla flavor, making the pudding irresistible.
• 4 large egg whites – Beaten into meringue, providing a light and airy topping.
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar – Stabilizes the egg whites when beating for meringue.
• ½ cup sugar – Sweetens the meringue, making it delightful and crispy.
• 50 to 70 vanilla wafers – The perfect crunchy layer that complements the creamy pudding.
• 5 to 7 large bananas – Provides the essential fruit layer, adding sweetness and freshness.

How to Prepare Banana Pudding Trifle

Preparing a Banana Pudding Trifle is easier than you might think, and it’s a fun way to spend some time in the kitchen. Let’s break it down into steps to guide you through the process.

1. Start by placing a metal mixing bowl in the freezer for at least 15 minutes. This will ensure your whipped cream is extra fluffy.
2. Once your bowl is nicely chilled, add 4 tablespoons of sugar, 2 cups of heavy cream, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix these on high until thickened, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. Once thickened, chill the mixture in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
3. Next, get a large skillet and mix together 1 cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt over no heat. This will create a dry mixture that will serve as the base for your pudding.
4. Pour in 3 cups of whole milk into the dry mixture while using a whisk to fully incorporate and dissolve the sugar and cornstarch.
5. Next, whisk in 4 large egg yolks until fully combined. Then, stir in 3 tablespoons of chilled, cubed unsalted butter until melted and combined.
6. Now, turn the heat on to medium and cook the mixture while stirring frequently. Keep an eye on it and ensure you don’t scramble the eggs. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, which should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir constantly for one more minute. Finally, remove from heat and stir in 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract.
7. Allow the pudding to cool slightly before transferring it to a bowl. Chill it in the refrigerator for about 2 to 3 hours; it will thicken even more as it cools.
8. In a separate metal mixing bowl, beat 4 large egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add ¼ teaspoon of cream of tartar and increase the speed to high. Beat until soft peaks form.
9. Add in ½ cup of sugar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the peaks are just stiff. Be careful not to overmix, or the meringue might separate.
10. Now comes the fun part: assembling your Banana Pudding Trifle. Start with a layer of 50 to 70 vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced 5 to 7 ripe bananas. Spread half of your whipped cream over the bananas.
11. Repeat the layering with another layer of wafers, bananas, and half of the pudding. Keep going with the remaining whipped cream and pudding.
12. Finish off with another layer of wafers and bananas, and use a spatula to spread all of the meringue on top. If you want to get fancy, you can use a kitchen torch to slightly brown the meringue for added flavor.
13. Finally, chill the assembled trifle for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can resist. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Recipe Variations about Banana Pudding Trifle

There are countless ways to put your own twist on a Banana Pudding Trifle. Let’s explore some of the fun variations!

• Chocolate Lovers: Add layers of chocolate pudding or sprinkle some chocolate shavings between the layers for a delightful twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into layers for an added crunch.
• Fruit Additions: Mix in other fruits such as strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.
• Alternative Creams: For a different taste, use flavored whipped cream like hazelnut or almond.
• Serving Size: Instead of a large trifle bowl, consider portioning it out into individual cups for a more elegant presentation.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Trifle

When it comes to serving your Banana Pudding Trifle, presentation is key. Here are some great ideas:

• Presentation: Use a clear glass trifle bowl or individual serving glasses to showcase the beautiful layers.
• Accompaniments: Consider serving with a side of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an added touch.
• Occasions: This dessert is perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or holiday celebrations.
• Storage: Keep any leftover trifle in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days.
• Seasonal Pairing: Pair with a light summer salad or enjoy on a cozy holiday evening with friends and family.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Banana Pudding Trifle is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of comfort food. With its creamy layers and sweet bananas, it’s sure to bring joy to any gathering. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, you won’t be disappointed!

Banana Pudding Trifle

The ultimate comfort food, this Banana Pudding Trifle is rich, creamy, and layered with fresh bananas and crunchy wafers. A perfect dessert to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Make it tonight and indulge in a delightful treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Food Processor
• Peeler
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 2 cups heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks room temp, save the egg whites for the meringue
• 3 tablespoons butter unsalted, chilled and cubed
• 1½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large egg whites room temp
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 50 to 70 pieces vanilla wafers about 1 & ½ boxes
• 5 to 7 large bananas ripe, but firm - peeled and sliced

Instructions

 

• Start by placing a metal mixing bowl in the freezer for at least 15 minutes. This will ensure your whipped cream is extra fluffy.
• Once your bowl is nicely chilled, add 4 tablespoons of sugar, 2 cups of heavy cream, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix these on high until thickened, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. Once thickened, chill the mixture in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.
• Next, get a large skillet and mix together 1 cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt over no heat. This will create a dry mixture that will serve as the base for your pudding.
• Pour in 3 cups of whole milk into the dry mixture while using a whisk to fully incorporate and dissolve the sugar and cornstarch.
• Next, whisk in 4 large egg yolks until fully combined. Then, stir in 3 tablespoons of chilled, cubed unsalted butter until melted and combined.
• Now, turn the heat on to medium and cook the mixture while stirring frequently. Keep an eye on it and ensure you don't scramble the eggs. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, which should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir constantly for one more minute. Finally, remove from heat and stir in 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract.
• Allow the pudding to cool slightly before transferring it to a bowl. Chill it in the refrigerator for about 2 to 3 hours; it will thicken even more as it cools.
• In a separate metal mixing bowl, beat 4 large egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add ¼ teaspoon of cream of tartar and increase the speed to high. Beat until soft peaks form.
• Add in ½ cup of sugar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the peaks are just stiff. Be careful not to overmix, or the meringue might separate.
• Now comes the fun part: assembling your Banana Pudding Trifle. Start with a layer of 50 to 70 vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced 5 to 7 ripe bananas. Spread half of your whipped cream over the bananas.
• Repeat the layering with another layer of wafers, bananas, and half of the pudding. Keep going with the remaining whipped cream and pudding.
• Finish off with another layer of wafers and bananas, and use a spatula to spread all of the meringue on top. If you want to get fancy, you can use a kitchen torch to slightly brown the meringue for added flavor.
• Finally, chill the assembled trifle for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can resist. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

• Tip 1: Allowing your pudding to chill is crucial for the right texture. It thickens up nicely in the fridge, making for a more solid layer in your trifle.
• Tip 2: Use bananas that are ripe but firm. Overripe bananas can turn mushy and don't hold up well within the layers.
• Tip 3: Ensure that your mixing bowl is clean and free from grease. Any grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
• Tip 4: Be creative with your layers! Feel free to alternate layers or even add an extra fruit layer if you desire.

Keyword Banana Pudding Trifle, easy dessert recipe, layered banana dessert, pudding trifle

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Meet Layla Reed

I’m Layla! I am happiest when I’m cooking with ingredients that are fresh from the market and in season. I love creating rustic, wholesome dishes that truly celebrate the natural flavors of the produce. I worked alongside Romina to ensure this recipe feels grounded, authentic, and absolutely delicious. I hope it brings a taste of the season to your home!