Exploring Banana Pudding without Sweetened Condensed Milk

Banana pudding is a beloved dessert with a rich and creamy texture that delights taste buds. While traditional recipes often call for sweetened condensed milk to achieve this decadent texture, there are plenty of alternatives for those looking to avoid or substitute this ingredient. In this article, we'll explore a variety of banana pudding recipes that skip the sweetened condensed milk while still delivering all the deliciousness you crave.

Why Skip Sweetened Condensed Milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient in traditional banana pudding, prized for its richness and sweetness. However, some may prefer to avoid it due to dietary restrictions, health concerns, or simply a desire for a lighter dessert option. Fortunately, there are numerous alternatives that can achieve a similar creamy texture and delightful flavor without the use of sweetened condensed milk.

banana pudding no sweetened condensed milk

Banana Pudding Recipes without Sweetened Condensed Milk

1. Vanilla Pudding Base

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Instructions:
  1. In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat until thickened.
  2. Temper the egg yolks by slowly adding some of the hot milk mixture to them, then return everything to the saucepan.
  3. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool before using in the banana pudding.

2. Greek Yogurt Base

banana pudding no sweetened condensed milk

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Instructions:
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
  2. Adjust sweetness to taste, adding more honey or maple syrup if desired. Chill the mixture before assembling the banana pudding.

3. Whipped Cream Base

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Instructions:
  1. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  2. Use the whipped cream as a creamy layer in between sliced bananas and vanilla wafers for a light and fluffy banana pudding.

Tips for Success

• Choose Ripe Bananas: Select ripe but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture in your pudding.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the pudding base before assembling the dessert and adjust the sweetness to your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the assembled banana pudding to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Conclusion

Creating a delicious banana pudding without sweetened condensed milk is easy with these alternative recipes. Whether you opt for a vanilla pudding base, Greek yogurt base, or whipped cream base, you can enjoy all the creamy goodness of banana pudding without the added sweetness of condensed milk. Experiment with different bases and customize your pudding with your favorite toppings for a dessert that's sure to impress!