Banana Pudding with Caramel Sauce: A Comfort Dessert with a Sweet Twist

Banana pudding has always been a classic comfort dessert—layers of creamy custard, ripe bananas, and soft cookies that melt into a delicious harmony. But when you drizzle in a golden, buttery caramel sauce, this humble treat transforms into a decadent showstopper. The caramel doesn’t overpower; instead, it adds a warm richness that balances the freshness of the bananas and the creaminess of the pudding.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a weekend treat, or a party dessert, this Banana Pudding with Caramel Sauce will be the kind of dish everyone asks for again. Let’s dive into the recipe step by step.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Pudding Base:

4 ripe bananas (firm but sweet)
1 package vanilla wafer cookies (or ladyfingers for variation)
2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
3 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature, cut into cubes)
½ cup heavy cream (warm)
½ teaspoon sea salt (optional, for salted caramel flavor)

For Garnish (optional):

Whipped cream
Crushed vanilla wafers
Caramel drizzle

🥣 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the sugar.
Let the sugar melt slowly, stirring occasionally until it turns into a golden amber liquid.
Add the butter carefully—it will bubble vigorously. Stir until fully incorporated.
Slowly pour in the warm heavy cream while stirring. The mixture will rise and bubble.
Continue cooking for 1–2 minutes until smooth and glossy.
Add a pinch of sea salt if you prefer salted caramel.
Set aside to cool slightly. The sauce will thicken as it cools.