Decadent Banana Pudding with Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce
Creamy, comforting, and irresistibly indulgent, this Banana Pudding with Salted Caramel Sauce takes a classic dessert to a whole new level. Layers of silky vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and buttery vanilla wafers are finished with a rich homemade salted caramel sauce for the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or whenever you’re craving something truly special.
Ingredients
For the Salted Caramel Sauce
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Banana Pudding
1 package (5.1 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups cold whole milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
4 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafer cookies (about 11 oz)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns into a smooth amber-colored liquid.
Carefully add the butter and whisk until fully melted and combined.
Slowly pour in the warmed heavy cream while whisking continuously. The mixture will bubble vigorously.
Stir in the sea salt and vanilla extract.
Remove from heat and let the caramel cool completely before using.
Step 2: Make the Pudding
In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and thickened.
Refrigerate for 5 minutes to set.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream
In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert
In a trifle dish or large serving bowl, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
Top with a layer of sliced bananas.
Spread a layer of pudding mixture over the bananas.
Drizzle with a generous amount of salted caramel sauce.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
Step 5: Finish and Chill
Spread the remaining whipped cream over the top.
Drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce.
Crush a few vanilla wafers and sprinkle over the top for garnish.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce and fresh banana slices for an elegant finishing touch.
Tips for Success
Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture.
Warm the heavy cream before adding it to the caramel to prevent seizing.
For a richer flavor, let the dessert chill overnight.
This luscious Banana Pudding with Salted Caramel Sauce is a creamy, dreamy dessert that combines nostalgic comfort with gourmet flair—one spoonful and you’ll be hooked!
