Banana Pudding Without Sweetened Condensed Milk: A Delicious Alternative

Banana pudding is a classic dessert that many people love. However, if you're looking for a version without sweetened condensed milk, you're in luck. This recipe maintains the creamy, rich texture and delightful banana flavor without relying on sweetened condensed milk. In this guide, we’ll explore the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for making a mouth-watering banana pudding that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

To make banana pudding without sweetened condensed milk, you will need:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 ounces)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

banana pudding without sweetened condensed milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Custard

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until well combined.

2. Add Milk: Gradually add the whole milk to the dry mixture, whisking constantly to ensure there are no lumps.

3. Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. This should take about 7-10 minutes.

4. Temper the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly. This will temper the yolks and prevent them from curdling.

5. Combine and Cook: Pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk mixture. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens further, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

2. Assemble the Pudding

1. Layer Ingredients: In a large serving dish or individual serving cups, begin by placing a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom. Follow with a layer of sliced bananas and then a layer of the warm custard.

2. Repeat Layers: Continue layering the wafers, bananas, and custard until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of custard on top.

3. Make the Whipped Cream

1. Whip the Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, add the heavy cream and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.

2. Top the Pudding: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the assembled pudding.

4. Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate: Cover the pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.

2. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with extra banana slices or crushed vanilla wafers if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!

banana pudding without sweetened condensed milk

Tips for Success

• Ripe Bananas: Use ripe but firm bananas to ensure the best flavor and texture.
• Prevent Browning: To prevent banana slices from browning, you can lightly coat them with lemon juice before layering.
• Homemade Touch: For an extra special touch, consider making homemade vanilla wafers instead of using store-bought ones.
• Consistency: If you prefer a thicker custard, increase the amount of flour slightly, or cook the mixture a bit longer to achieve the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Banana pudding without sweetened condensed milk is a delightful and creamy dessert that retains all the deliciousness of the traditional recipe. By using simple ingredients and following these steps, you can create a dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it's for a family gathering, a potluck, or a weekend treat, this banana pudding is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this classic dessert with a fresh twist!