Indulge in Delight: How to Make Perfect Banana Pudding Cake Cups

Banana pudding cake cups are the epitome of comfort desserts. With layers of creamy pudding, whipped cream, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures. Follow this easy recipe to create these delectable treats that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

For the Pudding:

• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 egg yolks
• 3 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• 1 tablespoon vanilla (or 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla (or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste)

For Assembly:

• 24 whole vanilla wafer cookies
• 30 vanilla wafer cookies, coarsely crushed
• 2 bananas, peeled and sliced

Directions:

For the Pudding:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and milk.
3. Gradually whisk the milk mixture into the cornstarch mixture over medium heat.
4. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and boiling. Boil for one minute.
5. Remove from heat and stir in softened butter and vanilla.
6. Cool the pudding to room temperature, using an ice bath if necessary.

For the Whipped Cream:

1. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla.
2. Mix on medium speed for a minute, then increase to high until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes.

For Assembly:

1. Arrange eight 1-cup jars on a tray or baking sheet.
2. Gently fold 1/3 of the whipped cream into the cooled pudding.
3. Transfer the pudding into a gallon-sized Ziploc bag, removing air and sealing the bag. Cut a 1/2 inch hole in one corner.
4. Pipe a small dollop of pudding into the bottom of each jar.
5. Press three whole vanilla wafer cookies into each jar in a single layer.
6. Pipe another layer of pudding over the cookies, followed by three slices of banana.
7. Sprinkle a tablespoon of crushed cookies over the bananas, reserving some for garnish.
8. Pipe the remaining pudding over the crushed cookies, then top with a spoonful of whipped cream.
9. Sprinkle with remaining crushed cookies.
10. Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3-4 hours to allow cookies to soften.
11. Just before serving, garnish with banana slices if desired.

These banana pudding cake cups are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the creamy goodness of homemade pudding combined with the irresistible flavor of bananas and vanilla wafers.