# What You Need:
→ Pudding Base
01 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
02 - 1/4 cup cornstarch
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 3 cups whole milk
05 - 4 large egg yolks
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
→ Assembly Components
08 - 1 (12 oz) box vanilla wafers (about 45–50 cookies)
09 - 4 medium ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
→ Whipped Cream Topping
10 - 1 cup heavy cream
11 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
12 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
# How to Make It:
01 - Whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the milk until completely smooth and no lumps remain.
02 - Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or heatproof spatula. Cook until the mixture thickens and just begins to bubble, about 6–8 minutes.
03 - Lightly beat the egg yolks in a separate bowl. Whisk approximately 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to temper them, then return the yolk mixture to the saucepan while whisking constantly.
04 - Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding is thick and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
05 - Transfer the pudding to a clean bowl and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour.
06 - In a 2- to 2.5-quart serving dish or trifle bowl, create layers using one-third of the vanilla wafers, one-third of the banana slices, and one-third of the chilled pudding. Repeat the layering process twice, ending with pudding on top.
07 - Cover the assembled pudding and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
08 - Just before serving, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together using an electric mixer or whisk until soft peaks form.
09 - Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top layer of pudding. Optionally garnish with extra vanilla wafers or banana slices. Serve chilled.
