Okay, friends, let me tell you about a dessert that’s been living rent-free in my head (and my husband)! What was the best thing to do in a freezer for the past few summers Banana Pudding Ice Cream. Think about it. What’s the taste of banana pudding? Is it like the perfect marriage of two of my favorite things? Is it easier to make than you think? Is banana ice cream better than a store bought one?
What is banana pudding ice cream?
What is banana pudding ice cream? What’s essentially taking all the best parts of a traditional banana pudding—ripe bananas, vanilla, and cinnamon? What are some recipes for custard-like wafers, and churning it into a smooth, frozen delight? Think of it as a leveled-up version of your grandma’s banana pudding, but with an icy twist. The beauty of this recipe is that you can control the sweetness and intensity of the banana. Is it a customizable dream?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? Why is Banana Pudding Ice Cream so popular? First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. You get that sweet, comforting banana flavor, complemented by the subtle vanilla notes. What’s the crunch of vanilla wafers? It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that just works. What are some of the best things you can make with this recipe? Do you need fancy ice cream makers? It’s a fairly straightforward process, and the results are always impressive. What I love most about this is how customizable it is. If you like a stronger banana flavor, add more bananas! If you prefer a sweeter ice cream, adjust the sugar accordingly. It’s super forgiving. Another big win is the cost-efficiency. What are the ingredients for vanilla wafers? Is it cheaper than buying a pint of premium ice cream from the store? What are some good ways to use up ripe bananas that are starting to get a little too spotty? And let’s not forget the versatility. Can you make Banana Pudding Ice Cream straight from the freezer? Is it good to serve banana bread with it? What is a dessert that keeps on giving?
How do you make banana pudding ice cream?
Quick Overview
How do you make Banana Pudding Ice Cream? How do you make a creamy custard base on the stovetop? If you’re making ice cream, let it chill completely before churning it. What is the hardest part of waiting for ice to freeze? If you don’t have an ice cream maker, I’ve got you covered with a no-churn option too! Is it safe to put it in the freezer for a few hours?
Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base:
* 2 cups heavy cream: Use the good stuff for the richest flavor and texture. * 1 cup whole milk: use the best stuff. Adds the perfect amount of creaminess. I’ve tested this with almond milk, and it works surprisingly well! * 34 cup granulated sugar: Adjust to your sweetness preference. * 1/4 teaspoon salt: * 4 large egg yolks: a good source of sweetness. What are the ingredients in vanilla ice cream? What is the best banana pudding flavor? Use pure vanilla extract. * 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The softer the banana, the more intense the flavor.
Optional Mix-In
* 1 cup vanilla wafers, crumbled: What’s your favorite banana pudding recipe? Some people like to add them in before freezing, but I find they get soggy. What are some good ways to sprinkle them on top of a salad?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Set aside. If the sugar is dissolved, heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is just about smooth. Is it starting to simmer? Don’t let it boil!
Step 2: Temper the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are slightly pale. Slowly drizzle about 1/2 cup of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly. How do you prevent eggs from scrambling when you add them to hot cream?
Step 3: Cook the Custard
In a saucepan, pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the custard thickens. Do not overmix. How do you coat the back of a spoon? What is the best time to stir a mixture of water and sugar for 5 minutes? When the custard is ready, you can run your finger across the back of the spoon and the line holds.
Step 4: Add the Bananas and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine.
Step 5: Chill the Custard
How do I make custard in a bowl? Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from peeling. How long should you refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to chill completely? How does ice cream churn?
Step 6: Churn the Ice Cream
Once the custard is completely chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the directions. What are manufacturer’s What is the best way to do this?
Step 7: Add Mix-Ins (Optional)
If you’re using vanilla wafers, gently fold them into the ice cream during the last few minutes of the recipe. Is it okay to sprinkle them on top of a salad for crunch?
Step 8: Freeze and Enjoy!
Transfer churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours. Is it hardening further? What is the best way to enjoy Banana Pudding Ice Cream? I love to top mine with extra vanilla wafers and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
What do you serve it with?
Can you make Banana Pudding Ice Cream?What is a classic dessert?Serve Banana Pudding Ice Cream with a slice of banana bread. What is chocolate brownie? What is the combination of cold and warm?For a Fun Sundae:What is a banana pudding sundae? Do you like caramel sauce?For a Refreshing Milkshake:Blend a few scoops of Banana Pudding Ice Cream with milk to make an amazing milkshake. Add a banana slice for extra flavor and garnish.For a Party Treat:Can you serve mini scoops of Banana Pudding Ice Cream in small cups or cones? My family loves to serve it with a warm skillet cookie – it’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. What are the differences between I always make sure to have some extra wafers on hand because my kids love to dip them in the melted chocolate.
How do you make Banana Pudding Ice Cream?
What are some tips for making Banana Pudding Ice Cream?What are the best ripe bananaThe riper the bananas, the more intense the banana flavor in your ice cream. What are bananas that are heavily spotted but not mushy?Don’t overcook the custard:If you overcook custard, it will curdle or become grainy. Cook it over low heat and stir constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.How do you chill custard thoroughly?How do you chill custard for at least 4 hours? How do you churn properly and have a smooth, creamy texture?Don’t overchIf you overchurn your ice cream, it will have a grainy texture. Churn it until it reaches a soft-serve consistency, then transfer it to the freezer to harden.Add Mix-Ins Strategically: If you’re using vanilla wafers, gently fold them into the ice cream during the last few minutes of churning, or sprinkle them on top when serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with other flavors and mix-ins. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard, or fold in some chopped pecans or chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning.
Make it Vegan: You can easily make this ice cream vegan by using plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and replacing the egg yolks with a cornstarch slurry. I’ve tested this with coconut cream and it tastes amazing!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing: This Banana Pudding Ice Cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. After that, it may start to develop ice crystals and lose its creamy texture.
Freezing: To prevent ice crystals from forming, make sure the ice cream is stored in an airtight container and that the freezer is set to a low temperature. You can also try layering a piece of plastic wrap directly on top of the ice cream before sealing the container.
Thawing: When you’re ready to serve the ice cream, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to scoop.
Reheating: I wouldn’t recommend reheating this ice cream, as it will melt and lose its texture. It’s best enjoyed straight from the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Banana Pudding Ice Cream recipe that is super easy to make. It is such a crowd-pleaser, and a guaranteed hit at any summer gathering. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day, and it brings back so many happy memories of childhood summers. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and let me know what you think. And, I’m always looking for new ways to try this recipe, so share your variations in the comments below! Happy churning!
Banana Pudding Ice Cream
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 0.5 cup Nilla wafers, crushed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until light and frothy.
- Gradually whisk the egg mixture into the cream mixture.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Once churned, gently fold in the crushed Nilla wafers.
- Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
