# What you'll 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 Topping
10 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream
11 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
12 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
# How to make it:
01 - Whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in whole milk until completely smooth and no lumps remain.
02 - Place saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk. Cook until mixture thickens considerably and just begins to bubble, approximately 6-8 minutes. Do not let it come to a full boil.
03 - Lightly beat egg yolks in a separate bowl. Whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to gradually raise their temperature, then return this mixture to the saucepan while whisking continuously.
04 - Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until pudding becomes very thick and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
05 - Transfer pudding to a clean bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent skin formation. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, approximately 1 hour.
06 - In a 2-2.5 quart serving dish or trifle bowl, create three distinct layers. For each layer: spread one-third of vanilla wafers evenly across bottom, arrange one-third of banana slices over wafers, then top with one-third of chilled pudding. End with pudding as the top layer.
07 - Cover dish tightly with plastic wrap or lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and layers to set properly.
08 - Just before serving, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl. Beat with electric mixer or whisk until soft peaks form and cream holds its shape.
09 - Spread or pipe whipped cream attractively over the top pudding layer. Optionally garnish with additional vanilla wafer pieces or fresh banana slices. Serve immediately while cold.
