Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding (Air Fryer Style)
Intro
Old-fashioned banana pudding is a comforting, nostalgic dessert made with layers of vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and creamy vanilla custard, traditionally topped with a fluffy meringue. While it’s typically baked in the oven, the air fryer can be used for a quicker, more energy-efficient twist on this Southern classic — perfect for smaller portions and faster results without sacrificing that rich, cozy flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time (Air Fryer): 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~25–30 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
For the Pudding Base:
2 cups whole milk
¾ cup granulated sugar (divided: ½ cup + ¼ cup)
3 large egg yolks (save whites for meringue)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
⅛ tsp salt
1½ tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp unsalted butter
For Assembly:
2–3 ripe bananas, sliced
25–30 vanilla wafers
For Meringue Topping:
3 large egg whites
¼ tsp cream of tartar
¼ cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
Make the Custard:
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the egg yolks, ½ cup sugar, flour, and salt with the milk.
Stir constantly until the mixture thickens (about 7–10 minutes). Do not let it boil.
Once thick, remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
Let the custard cool for 5–10 minutes.
Assemble the Banana Pudding:
In a small air fryer-safe baking dish or ramekins, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and a spoonful of custard.
Repeat the layers until the dish is nearly full, ending with custard on top.
Make the Meringue:
Beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
Top and Air Fry:
Spread or pipe the meringue over the top of the pudding, sealing all edges.
Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 2 minutes.
Place the dish in the basket and air fry for 5–6 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Watch closely to avoid over-browning.
Tips & Tricks:
Use day-old vanilla wafers for a softer, nostalgic texture.
For a shortcut, use boxed vanilla pudding, but homemade custard gives the best flavor.
Chill the assembled pudding (without meringue) for a classic cold dessert instead.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve warm, fresh from the air fryer with a dollop of whipped cream.
Or chill for 2–4 hours for a cooler, firmer pudding — just skip the meringue or use whipped topping.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.):
Calories: 270
Carbs: 38g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 10g
Sugar: 26g
Fiber: 1g