Memaw’s Banana Pudding

#### Step 1: Make the Pudding Base

1. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the **sugar**, **cornstarch**, and a pinch of **salt**. This will be the base of your creamy pudding.

2. **Add the Liquids**: Gradually whisk in the **whole milk** and **sweetened condensed milk** into the dry mixture. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid any lumps.

3. **Heat the Mixture**: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken. This may take 5-7 minutes. The goal is to create a smooth, custard-like texture.

4. **Temper the Eggs**: In a separate bowl, beat the **eggs**. Once the milk mixture is thickened, slowly pour a small amount of the hot mixture into the beaten eggs while whisking constantly. This helps to temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling when added to the saucepan.

5. **Combine and Thicken**: Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk mixture, continuing to whisk constantly. Bring it back to a gentle boil, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Be patient and keep whisking to ensure a smooth pudding.

6. **Add the Vanilla**: Once the pudding has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the **vanilla extract**. This gives the pudding a wonderful, aromatic flavor. Allow the pudding to cool for about 5 minutes before moving on to the next step.

#### Step 2: Layer the Pudding

1. **Prepare the Bananas**: While the pudding is cooling, peel and slice the **bananas** into thin rounds. You’ll need about 4-5 bananas, depending on their size.

2. **Assemble the Layers**: In a large serving dish (a glass trifle dish or a 9×13-inch casserole dish works well), layer the bottom with **vanilla wafer cookies**. Next, add a layer of the sliced **bananas** on top of the cookies.

3. **Add the Pudding**: Pour half of the warm pudding mixture over the cookies and bananas, spreading it evenly to cover the layers. Repeat the layering process with another layer of cookies, bananas, and then top with the remaining pudding mixture.

#### Step 3: Optional Topping

Memaw’s Banana Pudding can be finished with either a light, fluffy whipped cream or a traditional meringue topping. Here’s how to do both:

– **Whipped Cream Topping**: For a simple and creamy topping, spread a generous amount of **whipped cream** over the top of the pudding. You can either use store-bought whipped cream or make your own by whipping **heavy cream** and a little **powdered sugar**.

– **Meringue Topping**: If you prefer a meringue topping, beat the **egg whites** (from the eggs you used earlier) with a pinch of **cream of tartar** and a little **sugar** until stiff peaks form. Spread the meringue over the top of the pudding and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

#### Step 4: Chill and Serve

Once your banana pudding is assembled and topped, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least **4 hours**, or preferably **overnight**. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the pudding to set, resulting in a creamy, perfect consistency.

When you’re ready to serve, scoop out generous portions into bowls and enjoy this heartwarming dessert.

### Why Memaw’s Banana Pudding Is So Special

What makes **Memaw’s Banana Pudding** so special is its ability to evoke warm memories and bring people together. It’s a dish that has been passed down through generations, and its simple yet rich flavors make it a timeless favorite.

Here’s why this recipe stands out:
– **Creamy texture**: The pudding is velvety smooth, thanks to the combination of sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and cornstarch. Every bite melts in your mouth.
– **Sweet bananas**: The bananas bring a natural sweetness and texture that balances out the richness of the pudding.
– **Crisp vanilla wafers**: The vanilla wafers soften slightly but still maintain a slight crunch in each bite, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy pudding.
– **Versatility**: Whether you add whipped cream or meringue, this dessert can be customized to your preference while staying true to its classic roots.

### Tips for Perfect Memaw’s Banana Pudding

1. **Use ripe bananas**: The bananas should be ripe but not overly soft. They should hold their shape in the pudding without becoming mushy.
2. **Let it chill**: Make sure to let the pudding chill for several hours. This helps the flavors develop and ensures the pudding sets to the right consistency.
3. **Layer the ingredients carefully**: For the best texture, be sure to layer the vanilla wafers, bananas, and pudding mixture evenly. The cookies should be in contact with the pudding for a soft, layered texture.

### Conclusion

**Memaw’s Banana Pudding** is more than just a dessert; it’s a cherished tradition that brings comfort, joy, and a taste of nostalgia to every bite. With its creamy, smooth pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers, this dish captures the essence of Southern hospitality and home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or making it for a special treat, Memaw’s Banana Pudding is a timeless classic that everyone will love. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the sweet, comforting taste of this Southern treasure!