The Story Behind the Dish
Simplicity meets indulgence in this magical banana pudding that transforms just a few humble ingredients into a luxurious dessert. Drawing inspiration from classic Italian dolci, this no-bake treat proves that extraordinary flavors can emerge from the most straightforward recipes. With just bananas, milk, and a touch of magic, you’ll create a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients
For the Pudding
- Bananas: 3 ripe
- Milk: 800ml (3.4 cups)
- Sugar: 150g (3/4 cup)
- Agar-Agar: 30g (about 3 tablespoons)
- Additional Milk: as needed for blending
For the Caramel
- Sugar: for caramel sauce
- Water: as needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bananas
- Peel ripe bananas
- Mash or blend bananas until smooth
- Add a small amount of milk if needed for blending
- Make the Pudding Base
- In a large saucepan, combine milk and sugar
- Sprinkle agar-agar over the milk
- Let sit for 2-3 minutes to bloom
- Heat mixture, stirring constantly
- Cook for 5 minutes, ensuring agar-agar is fully dissolved
- Combine and Mold
- Mix mashed bananas into the milk mixture
- Stir until completely incorporated
- Pour into a bottle or mold
- Ensure smooth, even surface
- Chill and Set
- Refrigerate for 5 hours
- Pudding will firm up and set during this time
- Prepare Caramel Sauce
- In a separate pan, caramelize sugar
- Add a small amount of water
- Stir until golden brown
- Serve
- Unmold pudding
- Slice into rounds
- Drizzle with caramel sauce
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 3-5g
Preparation Time: 10 minutes Chilling Time: 5 hours Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness
- Stir agar-agar constantly to prevent clumping
- Ensure milk mixture comes to a full boil
- Use a straight-sided mold for easy unmolding
- Let pudding come to room temperature before serving for best texture
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegan Option: Already vegan-friendly
- Sugar-Free: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener
- Flavor Variations:
- Add vanilla extract
- Sprinkle with cinnamon
- Top with roasted nuts
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk
- Chocolate Version: Add cocoa powder to mixture
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is agar-agar? A plant-based gelatin alternative derived from seaweed.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Q3: My pudding didn’t set. What went wrong? Ensure agar-agar is fully dissolved and mixture boils.
Q4: Can I freeze this dessert? Not recommended, as it may affect texture.
Q5: What can I serve with this pudding? Whipped cream, fresh berries, or additional caramel sauce.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days
- Cover to prevent drying out
- Best enjoyed within 2-3 days
- Do not freeze
- Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving
Enjoy your Banana Caramel Pudding – a simple yet sophisticated dessert that’s sure to impress!
