Patti LaBelle's Classic Banana Pudding is One Dessert You’ll Want to Make Again and Again (and Again)
Patti LaBelle's Banana Pudding
For decades, Patti LaBelle has graced the world with her soulful voice and captivating performances. Beyond her musical talents, however, Patti LaBelle has also made a significant mark in the culinary world with her delectable desserts—particularly her famous banana pudding, which you can buy at some Walmart locations. LaBelle's banana pudding has become an iconic dish celebrated for its rich flavor, creamy texture and irresistible sweetness.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Patti LaBelle's passion for cooking was deeply rooted in her upbringing, where she learned to appreciate the art of Southern cuisine from her family. Drawing inspiration from her grandmother's recipes, plus her own experimentation in the kitchen, LaBelle perfected her banana pudding recipe over the years, creating a decadent combination of creamy custard, ripe bananas and layers of vanilla wafers—all infused with her unique touch of love and attention to detail.
As the years have gone by, Patti LaBelle's banana pudding has proven to be timeless. It continues to capture generations of hearts, serving as a symbol of joy and connection, as well as the power of homemade desserts enjoyed during cherished family gatherings. As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of Patti's many offerings, I knew I had to try her show-stopping dessert and see what all the fanfare was about. Here's how to make Patti LaBelle's banana pudding.
Get the recipe: Patti LaBelle's Banana Pudding
Courtesy of Choya Johnson
Ingredients for Patti LaBelle’s Banana Pudding
To recreate Patti LaBelle's iconic banana pudding, you'll need sweetened condensed milk, cold water, instant vanilla pudding mix, heavy cream, ripe bananas and vanilla wafers.
How to Make Patti LaBelle’s Banana Pudding
Start by whisking together the condensed milk with cold water in a large bowl until well combined. Once mixed, add the vanilla pudding mix and beat the mixture at medium speed until it is thoroughly blended, about 2 minutes. Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator and chill for approximately 5 minutes. After chilling, gently fold in the whipped heavy cream using a rubber spatula until fully incorporated.
Now, assemble the banana pudding. Arrange one-third of the vanilla wafers in a single layer at the bottom of a large trifle bowl or glass dish. Thinly slice one banana and layer the slices on top of the wafers. Next, spread one-third of the pudding mixture evenly over the banana layer.
Courtesy of Choya Johnson
Repeat this layering process two more times, alternating between vanilla wafers, banana slices and pudding mixture, until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of pudding on top (I threw a few extra wafers on top of mine though, as it's my favorite part). Once assembled, refrigerate the banana pudding for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the pudding to set. Serve chilled.
Related: Patti LaBelle's Famous Fried Chicken Is Simple & Soulful
What I Thought about Patti LaBelle's Banana Pudding
Patti LaBelle's Banana Pudding has garnered widespread acclaim for its exceptional taste and simplicity, and for good reason. With just a handful of basic ingredients, this recipe effortlessly comes together to create a dessert that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious. The combination of flavors (bananas, cream, vanilla cookies) and textures (soft, fluffy, crunchy) makes it the ultimate comfort dessert.
What makes Patti LaBelle's Banana Pudding a real standout is its minimalistic approach to ingredients, proving that sometimes, the most delightful creations stem from the simplest of recipes. There's no need for elaborate techniques or exotic ingredients here—just whisk, fold, layer and bam. You've got pure dessert goodness. As a wise woman once said, the smallest deed is greater than the grandest intention.
Related: Patti LaBelle's Short Ribs Are Tender, Fall-Off-The-Bone Perfection
Courtesy of Choya Johnson
Tips for Making Patti LaBelle's Banana Pudding
Be sure to let it set before digging in. If you don't let it set in the fridge, you'll end up with an extremely runny result. And while it'll probably still be just as good, it won't look as pretty.
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