Mary Berry Banana Pudding

This Mary Berry Banana Pudding is a classic, creamy dessert layered with ripe bananas, soft sponge fingers or ladyfingers, and a rich custard-style cream. It’s the perfect no-bake dessert for summer evenings, family get-togethers, or as a make-ahead treat. With just a few pantry ingredients, this comforting dish delivers elegance and simplicity in every spoonful.

What is Mary Berry Banana Pudding?

Mary Berry Banana Pudding is a traditional British-inspired dessert featuring ripe banana slices layered with custard, sponge fingers or cake, and a touch of whipped cream. Unlike American versions that use vanilla wafers and instant pudding, this one includes a homemade custard or cream base, making it lighter, smoother, and more refined.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Cookie Dough
• Jamie Oliver Lemon Chicken
• Jamie Oliver Kimchi
• Jamie Oliver’s Pesto

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Creamy and indulgent – A smooth, rich custard paired with soft banana
• No baking needed – A perfect summer dessert
• Simple ingredients – Mostly pantry staples
• Make-ahead friendly – Improves in flavor overnight
• Family-approved – Gentle flavor that pleases all ages
• Elegant yet effortless – Looks beautiful in a trifle dish or glasses

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Banana Pudding

• 3 ripe bananas, thinly sliced
• 200g sponge fingers (or ladyfingers)
• 300ml whole milk
• 300ml double cream
• 3 large egg yolks
• 75g caster sugar
• 2 tbsp cornflour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: extra whipped cream and banana slices for topping

Ingredient Notes:

• Bananas: Ripe but not overripe—look for yellow with minimal spots
• Sponge fingers: Provide soft texture and structure
• Cornflour: Helps thicken the custard without making it too heavy
• Vanilla: Enhances the banana flavor and adds aroma

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Trifle dish or dessert glasses
• Spoon or spatula
• Fine sieve (optional)

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Banana Pudding

Step 1: Make the custard

• In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornflour. Slowly add milk while whisking until smooth.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened—about 5–7 minutes.
• Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Whip the cream

• In a clean bowl, whip the double cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the bananas

• Slice the bananas into thin, even rounds just before layering to prevent browning.

Step 4: Layer the pudding

• Start with a layer of sponge fingers at the bottom of your dish.
• Add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a layer of custard.
• Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with custard on top.

Step 5: Chill and serve

• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
• Top with extra whipped cream and fresh banana slices before serving.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Banana Pudding

• Fresh mint leaves – Adds a refreshing finish
• Caramel drizzle – A sweet contrast to the banana and cream
• Toasted coconut flakes – For added crunch and flavor
• Dark chocolate shavings – Adds richness to the dish
• Vanilla shortbread cookies – A crispy complement
• Berries on the side – A pop of tartness balances the sweetness
• Espresso shot – Cuts through the creamy texture beautifully

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Banana Pudding

• Use firm but ripe bananas – Overripe ones turn mushy
• Let the custard cool slightly – Prevents curdling when layering
• Don’t overwhip the cream – Stop at soft peaks for a smooth texture
• Layer thoughtfully – Try to balance banana and custard in every scoop
• Chill thoroughly – Allows flavors to meld and sponge to soften
• Use a trifle dish for presentation – Beautiful layers make a visual impact
• Serve within 2 days – Best texture and banana freshness

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Banana Pudding

• Add a caramel layer – Between the bananas and custard
• Use ginger biscuits – Instead of sponge fingers for a spicy note
• Infuse custard with cinnamon – Adds warm depth
• Layer with crushed meringue – For texture contrast
• Top with crushed nuts – Walnuts or pecans work well
• Add a splash of rum – For an adult twist

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Banana Pudding

• Keep refrigerated – Store in an airtight container or covered dish
• Consume within 48 hours – Best flavor and banana quality
• Avoid freezing – Texture of the banana and custard won’t hold well
• Don’t leave out for long – Serve cold, not room temperature
• Add banana topping just before serving – Prevents browning

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Banana Pudding

• No reheating needed – It’s a chilled dessert
• Serve directly from the fridge – Allow to sit for 5 minutes before scooping
• Avoid microwaving – Custard and banana may separate

How Can I Make Mary Berry Banana Pudding Healthier?

• Swap double cream for Greek yogurt – Lightens the dish
• Reduce sugar in custard – Keeps it mildly sweet
• Use wholegrain or low-sugar biscuits – For a fiber boost
• Opt for almond or oat milk – Lower in calories
• Limit portion size – Still satisfying in smaller servings
• Use bananas as natural sweetener – Less added sugar needed

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Sodium: 90mg

FAQs

How do you keep bananas from turning brown in banana pudding?

To keep bananas from browning, slice them just before layering and lightly coat with lemon juice. This slows oxidation without affecting the flavor too much.

Can I make Mary Berry Banana Pudding the night before?

Yes, it’s actually better made ahead. Preparing it the night before allows the flavors to meld and the sponge fingers to soften, creating the ideal texture.

How thick should the custard be for banana pudding?

The custard should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. It should not be runny, but still smooth and pourable to create even layers.

Can I use store-bought custard instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, you can use ready-made custard to save time. Just make sure it’s thick and creamy to match the texture of homemade custard.

Final Words

This Mary Berry Banana Pudding is more than a simple dessert—it’s a soothing, creamy reminder of home-cooked comfort. With every chilled spoonful, it blends banana, custard, and sponge in a way that feels both nostalgic and refined. Perfect for make-ahead elegance without the stress.

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