Homemade Banana Pudding

A couple of weeks ago, I ended up making a treat for Mr. L's students after they did very well on an important test.  I normally do cookies or something relatively simple, but this time, I decided to make them some homemade banana pudding.

This recipe is from my grandmother on my mother's side.  I hope you enjoy!

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 tbsp All-purpose flour
• 1 1/3 cup sugar
• Dash salt
• 3 eggs, separated
• 3 cups milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 12 oz box of vanilla wafers
• 4 to 6 medium bananas
• 1/4 cup (6 tbsp) sugar + 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

Combine flour, sugar, and salt (first three ingredients) in a heavy pan.

Beat egg yolks; combine yolks and milk, stirring well.

Stir into dry ingredients.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly (very important step to keep the milk from burning!) until smooth and thickened.  Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla.

Layer 1/3 wafers in a 3 qt baking dish.

Slice 2 bananas and layer over wafers.

Pour 1/3 custard over bananas.

Repeat layers twice.

(Note:  When I do this recipe, I only do two layers -- so one set of layers is only half the ingredients.  I normally don't have room in my dish for three layers!)

Beat egg whites at room temperature until foamy.

Gradually add 1/4 cup (6 tbsp) + 2 tbsp sugar (8 tbsp sugar total) 1 tbsp at a time, beating until stiff peaks form.

Add 1 tsp vanilla and beat until blended, then spread over custard.  (I like to add Nilla wafer crumbles on top for show!)

Bake at 425 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes.

Serve and enjoy!