Step 4: Slice the Bananas

Peel and slice your bananas right before assembling the dessert to keep them fresh and prevent browning.
For the best texture, choose bananas that are ripe with a few spots, but not over-soft.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

In a trifle dish, deep bowl, or individual cups, begin layering:

1. Bottom layer: A handful of vanilla wafers
2. Second layer: Banana slices
3. Third layer: Warm pudding
4. Repeat the layers until you fill the dish

Press gently with a spoon to help the pudding settle between the cookies.

Step 6: Chill for Maximum Flavor

Cover the pudding and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight.
The cookies will soften into a cake-like texture, creating that classic banana-pudding feel.

How to Make the Caramel Sauce

Step 7: Melt the Sugar

In a heavy saucepan, heat 1 cup sugar over medium heat.
Stir constantly with a high-heat spatula as the sugar melts and turns amber.
Be patient—sugar transitions quickly from perfect to burnt.

Step 8: Add Butter

Once the sugar reaches a deep golden color, add the butter. It will bubble vigorously—this is normal.
Stir until the butter fully melts into the sugar.

Step 9: Pour in the Cream

Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
The mixture will bubble again, but it will become silky and smooth within seconds.

Step 10: Finish the Sauce

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and pinch of salt.
Allow the caramel to cool for about 10 minutes. It will thicken into a rich, glossy sauce.

Step 11: Add the Final Touch

Drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over the chilled banana pudding.
For extra indulgence, add whipped cream on top and finish with more crumbled cookies or a thin drizzle of caramel.

Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding with Caramel Sauce

• Use whole milk and heavy cream for the creamiest pudding texture.
• Add a splash of lemon juice to banana slices if preparing ahead—helps prevent browning.
• Don’t rush the caramel—slow, steady heating ensures smooth results.
• Serve chilled, but add the caramel right before serving to keep it glossy.

Why This Recipe Works

This dessert balances multiple textures—soft vanilla wafers, creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and the buttery richness of caramel. Each bite delivers sweetness, warmth, and nostalgia. The caramel takes the classic southern dish to a gourmet level without complicated techniques.

If you’d like, I can also create:
✅ A shorter recipe version
✅ A printable recipe card
✅ Nutritional information
✅ Variations like salted caramel, biscoff, or chocolate-banana

Just let me know!