Classic Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe

Overview:
Magnolia Bakery’s Banana Pudding is a beloved dessert known for its creamy layers of pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. This version is optimized for those following Weight Watchers, allowing you to enjoy a classic treat without the guilt. With a few simple adjustments, this recipe retains all the beloved flavors while fitting neatly into your meal plan.

Points Information:

For those following the Weight Watchers program, this banana pudding recipe is approximately 5 points per serving. This calculation is based on using reduced-fat ingredients and fresh fruit, making it a lighter yet satisfying dessert option.

Ingredients:

  • For the Pudding:
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 3/4 cups skim milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • For the Assembly:
  • 4 medium ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 box (11 oz) reduced-fat vanilla wafers
  • 1 cup light whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
  • Optional Garnish:
  • Additional vanilla wafers for topping
  • Sliced bananas for decoration
  • Mint leaves for a fresh touch

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Preparing the Pudding Base

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt until fully combined. This dry mixture will form the base of your pudding and prevent lumps.
  2. Gradually whisk in the skim milk, ensuring there are no clumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Cooking the Pudding

  1. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly add a small amount of the hot pudding mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. This prevents them from scrambling.
  3. Gradually whisk the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining pudding, stirring continuously.

Step 3: Finalizing the Pudding

  1. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring until the pudding is thick and creamy.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the pudding to cool for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature before proceeding.

Step 4: Assembling the Banana Pudding

  1. In a 3-quart dish or individual serving cups, start layering your ingredients. Begin with a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
  2. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers, followed by a generous layer of the cooled pudding mixture.

Step 5: Repeating Layers

  1. Repeat the layering process until you reach the top of your dish, finishing with a layer of pudding.
  2. Top the final layer of pudding with the light whipped topping, smoothing it out evenly for a polished look.

Step 6: Chilling the Pudding

  1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.

Nutrition Information:

Per Serving (Based on 8 Servings):

  • Calories: 190
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Total Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Sodium: 180mg

Serving Suggestions:

This delightful dessert can be served in individual cups for a more elegant presentation or in a large dish for family-style serving. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors.

Tips for Success:

  1. Banana Ripeness: Choose ripe bananas with a few brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
  2. Layering Variations: Feel free to mix in other fruits, like strawberries or blueberries, for a twist on the classic recipe.
  3. Storage: The banana pudding is best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Optional Variations:

  1. Vegan Version: Substitute the egg yolks with a plant-based custard or cornstarch-based thickener, and use almond or coconut milk.
  2. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion:

The Classic Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of family gatherings and special occasions. This healthier version retains the same comforting flavors and creamy texture, making it an excellent choice for those on a Weight Watchers plan. By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping your nutritional goals in check.

This recipe is not just about indulgence; it’s about making smart choices without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy every creamy, banana-filled bite, and share this timeless treat with friends and family. The joy of homemade desserts is that they can be both delicious and mindful, and this banana pudding is a perfect example of that balance. Indulge responsibly and relish the delightful taste of a classic dessert reimagined!