Bananas Foster Pudding Cups

 

If you’ve ever fallen in love with the rich, boozy caramel flavor of Bananas Foster, then you’re in for a delightful twist. These Bananas Foster Pudding Cups combine the comforting texture of homemade vanilla pudding with a luscious topping of caramelized bananas, brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. Served in individual cups, this dessert is perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy night in.

This recipe takes a classic New Orleans dessert and transforms it into an easy-to-serve layered pudding that feels both fancy and nostalgic. The best part? You don’t need to flambé anything! All the flavor—none of the fire.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Chill Time: 2 hours (minimum)

• Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

• Servings: 4 individual cups

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Pudding:

• 2 cups whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 large egg yolks

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Bananas Foster Topping:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• ⅓ cup brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 2 ripe bananas, sliced

• 1 tablespoon dark rum or ½ teaspoon rum extract (optional)

• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Make the Vanilla Pudding (15 minutes + chilling)

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.

2. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth.

3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until it begins to thicken—about 5 to 7 minutes.

4. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a few spoonfuls of the hot mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly (this tempers the eggs).

5. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until thick and creamy.

6. Remove from heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract.

7. Pour the pudding into individual clear plastic or glass cups, filling each about ¾ full.

8. Cover each with plastic wrap directly touching the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

2. Prepare the Bananas Foster Topping (10–12 minutes)

1. In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

2. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is bubbly and thick—about 3–4 minutes.

3. Add sliced bananas and cook for 2–3 minutes, gently turning to coat.

4. Add rum or rum extract, stir to combine. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.

5. Let cool slightly before spooning over chilled pudding cups.

Assembly & Serving

• Once the pudding has chilled, spoon a generous amount of the warm (or room temperature) banana topping over each cup.

• Serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator and enjoy within 24 hours for best flavor and texture.

• Optionally, top with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for extra flair.

These Bananas Foster Pudding Cups are the ultimate comfort dessert—creamy, sweet, and just the right amount of indulgent. The layers of smooth vanilla pudding and spiced caramelized bananas create a balance of textures and flavors that feel sophisticated yet familiar. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself after a long day, this dessert brings a little bit of Southern charm to every spoonful.

Try them once, and they might just become your new go-to treat. So grab your spoon and dive into this dreamy dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to love.