Banana Pudding, but Make It from Scratch
Vintage recipes are having a moment—think tomato aspic (kind of scary) and Jell-O molds (definitely scary, but I’m kind of into it actually), but also the classics that never should have left, like banana pudding. And not the shortcut kind where you dump boxed pudding mix into a bowl and call it a day. No, we’re doing this the old-school way—stirring a luscious, homemade custard on the stovetop like we have all the time in the world (even if we don’t).
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And because I’m me (and maybe you’re you), we’re making this lactose-free without sacrificing a bit of that creamy, dreamy richness. Enter Alta Dena Lactose-Free Whole Milk—aka my secret weapon for making dairy-heavy desserts that don’t make my stomach hate me. It’s real milk, just without the lactose, so it behaves just like the original. No weird aftertaste, no chalky texture—just full-fat, velvety goodness.
This recipe was sponsored by my friends at Alta Dena Dairy. Sponsored posts like these help me to keep bringing you delicious gluten free recipes. I only share brands and products with you that I love and use myself. Thanks for your support!
Why Alta Dena Milk?
Alta Dena Lactose-Free Whole Milk isn’t just easy on the stomach—it’s packed with all the nutritional benefits of regular milk, without the lactose drama. Here’s why it’s worth pouring into your cereal and your banana pudding:
1. Gentle on Digestion
Lactose-free milk has the same nutrients as regular milk, just with the lactose broken down into simpler sugars that are easier to digest. So if dairy usually makes you feel like a human balloon, this is your fix.
2. Full of Bone-Building Calcium
One cup has around 300mg of calcium, which keeps your bones strong and helps prevent osteoporosis (because let’s be real, we’re not getting any younger).
3. High-Quality Protein
Each serving delivers 8 grams of protein, meaning it’s great for muscle repair, energy, and keeping you full—yes, even in dessert form.
4. Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Alta Dena milk is a natural source of vitamin D, phosphorus, and B vitamins, which support everything from immune health to brain function. Basically, your body will thank you.
5. No Weird Additives
Some lactose-free milks rely on stabilizers or ultra-processing to mimic real milk, but Alta Dena keeps it simple. It’s just milk, minus the lactose—nothing funky added.
So if you’re lactose-intolerant but still want all the benefits of dairy without the regret, this is the way to go. And in banana pudding? It’s chef’s kiss perfection.
Banana Pudding FAQs (Because I Know You Have Questions)
What Ingredients Are in Banana Pudding?
At its core, banana pudding is simple:
Custard (Alta Dena Lactose Free Milk, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, lactose free butter, vanilla and banana extract)
Bananas (obviously)
Vanilla wafers (gluten-free, in this case)
Whipped cream or meringue (totally optional – I like it without)
What Keeps Bananas from Turning Brown in Banana Pudding?
A couple of things:
- Layering the custard over them creates a little air barrier.
- A squeeze of citrus (lemon juice, orange juice, even pineapple juice) slows down oxidation.
- Serving it fresh (because no one wants to eat banana pudding that’s turned into a sad science experiment).
Do You Put Cream Cheese in Banana Pudding?
If you’re from the South, you might be shouting YES at your screen right now. Some recipes fold in softened cream cheese for extra richness, but I prefer to let the homemade custard shine. If you want that tangy, cheesecake-like vibe, go for it. I won’t stop you. But remember – it’s not lactose free.
What Thickens Banana Pudding?
Cornstarch is the star here, working its magic to turn milk and eggs into something spoonable. Some recipes also use flour, but cornstarch gives you a silkier texture. And no, you don’t need to add instant pudding mix. We’re better than that.
Is this pudding better than the boxed mix? Yes.
Will you feel like a 1950s housewife making it from scratch? Also yes, but in a cool way.
Is it worth the extra effort? 100%.
Lactose-free, gluten-free, and pure nostalgia in a bowl. Now go forth and make banana pudding the right way.
More Classic Gluten Free Recipes to Try
- Meyer Lemon Icebox Pie with Graham & Hazelnut Crumb Crust
- Easy Recipe for Gluten-Free Banana Bread
- Easy & Delicious Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Snack Cake
Did you make this easy banana pudding recipe? Be sure to leave a comment and star rating below (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) and post a picture and tag us on Instagram using the hashtags #agirldefloured #deflouredrecipes! Thank you!
Best Ever Banana Pudding (from Scratch)
Equipment
- Medium Saucepan
- Whisk
- Heatproof Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups Alta Dena Lactose-Free Whole Milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons banana extract optional
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter lactose-free, if needed
- 3 ripe bananas sliced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice to keep bananas from browning
- 1 box gluten-free vanilla wafers like Kinnikinnick or Schär
Instructions
- Make the custard: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook until steaming but not boiling.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly drizzle in about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture, whisking constantly (this keeps the eggs from scrambling—no one wants banana scrambled eggs).
- Pour the tempered eggs back into the saucepan and cook, whisking constantly, until thickened (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, banana extract (if using) and butter. Let cool slightly.
- Prep the bananas: Toss the banana slices with lemon juice to keep them looking fresh.
- Assemble: In individual cups, layer vanilla wafers, bananas, and warm custard. Repeat until you run out (or get impatient).
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Top with extra vanilla wafers for crunch and try not to eat it all in one sitting.
Nutrition
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