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Southern banana pudding has long been a symbol of comfort and tradition in African American cuisine. Southern comfort food at its finest! We call it soul food.

Homemade banana pudding evokes memories of warm Southern hospitality and often graces tables at family gatherings, cookouts, and holiday meals, fostering a sense of togetherness that is hard to replicate. Its presence signifies a celebration of soul food heritage, honoring the simplicity of a few high-quality ingredients transformed into a delicious masterpiece!

Artfully layered with cookies, ripe bananas, and creamy custard, topped off with a delightful layer of whipped cream. Growing up in the South, I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying this delightful treat throughout my life. But how do you make banana pudding the Black way?

Southern banana pudding the Black way

Many fruits and vegetables commonly associated with America actually have origins in Africa. For example, bananas have an African heritage that dates back to around 650 AD. I discuss the Black history of banana pudding in more detail in my article HERE, and I explore the topic of whether banana pudding is a Black thing in my podcast episode HERE.

The secrets to making Southern banana pudding have been passed down through generations in my family. It all began with my Great-grandma Florence, who was an esteemed caterer. She taught my dad how to achieve extra smooth pudding by using her professional stand mixer instead of mixing by hand. Banana pudding became his signature dessert for our special occasions.

The decadent whipped topping comes from my mom’s Southern North Carolina banana pudding recipe. I watched her skillfully layer whipped cream, not just on top but also in between the layers! This ultimate Black folks’ Southern banana pudding recipe reflects the legacy of soul food flavors and the traditions of our family.

How is Southern banana pudding different

Bananas are a staple in the South, and Southern banana pudding is a delicious dessert that can be made in just a few minutes. It’s perfect for any occasion!

One of the best things about Southern banana pudding is that it can be prepared in the morning and enjoyed later the same day. Once you’ve tasted this delightful soul food classic–Southern banana pudding prepared the Black way–you’ll never look at other banana puddings the same!

Ingredients

This soul food banana pudding recipe features an unexpected yet delightful secret ingredient–cream cheese!

Loved by generations from North to South and East to West, Southern banana pudding is a delicious dessert known for its rich, creamy texture and delightful banana flavor that will make your mouth water! Before I share the instructions and details on preparing this tantalizing treat, let’s first look at the ingredients needed for soul food banana pudding.

Black Folks Southern Banana Pudding Recipe

Bananas –You will need ripe bananas (but not overripe) to prepare this recipe. Look for firm bananas with bright yellow skin and brown spots.
Vanilla pudding– You could make homemade vanilla pudding. But Black foodies have found that “old-school soul food banana pudding” is still just as tasty and easily accessible for anyone to prepare quickly with instant pudding.
Nilla Wafers – The dessert base is made from the brand of cookies called Nilla Wafers. There’s no replacement for this classic! So, it’s best not to try substitutes for these cookies.
Whole milk – is another key ingredient to a pudding. Whole milk adds rich milky flavor and smooth texture to your dessert.
Whipped cream – For an extra creamy texture, add whipped cream! Banana pudding becomes more decadent and luxurious when topped with it. For an alternative topping, check out my old-fashioned banana pudding recipe featuring classic meringue!
Cream cheese – This secret ingredient enhances the flavor of the banana pudding and thickens its consistency, preventing it from becoming watery.

How to make Southern banana pudding the Black way

Making this dish may seem complicated at first due to its layers. But it’s actually quite simple to prepare once you know what ingredients are needed. Even if you’re short on time, this Southern dessert can be ready quickly!

Make the pudding and set it aside in the refrigerator.
Mix the whipped topping and set aside.
Layer the dessert with the cookies, bananas, pudding, whipped topping, and repeat!
Let the banana pudding chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Chilling also makes it easier to slice.

Black Southern Banana Pudding The Soul Food Way

Variations

This recipe can be made according to the instructions and then transferred to individual baking cups, ramekins, or mason jars.
Slice pieces carefully to preserve the banana pudding layers when transferring.
Want to make just half of this recipe, or need to make more or less banana pudding? You can use the dynamic recipe card below to adjust the serving size for your desired proportionate ingredients!
Try my Southern banana pudding recipe using chocolate pudding with this easy-to-follow recipe!

How to keep bananas from browning

If you are preparing your banana pudding ahead of time, you can prep all the ingredients and keep them separated until you’re ready to serve.

However, you should only peel and slice the bananas when ready to add them to the pudding. This will prevent the bananas from browning right away and ensure they look fresh when you serve the banana pudding at the dessert table.

Storing leftovers

While the pudding may still be good, the bananas will brown when exposed to oxygen. Bananas oxidize more quickly than other fruits and vegetables.

Despite the browning, this banana pudding recipe remains good in the refrigerator while stored in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days.