Banana Pudding

Sweet, creamy and delicious, banana pudding is a traditional Southern treat.

PREP: 21 minutes
COOK: 35 minutes

• 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/3 cups sugar
• Dash of salt
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (12-ounce) package vanilla wafers
• 6 medium bananas
• 6 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Combine first 3 ingredients in a heavy saucepan. Beat egg yolks; combine egg yolks and milk, stirring well. Stir into dry ingredients; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat; stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla.
2. Layer one-third of wafers in a 3-quart baking dish. Slice 2 bananas, and layer over wafers. Pour one-third of custard over bananas. Repeat layers twice.
3. Beat egg whites at high speed with an electric mixer until foamy. Gradually add 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff peaks form. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla, and beat until blended.
4. Spread meringue over custard, sealing to edge of dish. Bake at 325°F for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden.

YIELDS: 8 servings

© 2011 Jadeworks Entertainment.