If you adore both banana pudding and tiramisu, wait until you try this irresistible Banana Pudding Tiramisu: A Delicious Twist on Two Classic Desserts Recipe. It brilliantly marries the creamy, luscious richness of banana pudding with the coffee-soaked layers and cocoa dusting that make tiramisu a timeless favorite. With velvety pudding, a hint of banana essence, and the perfect coffee kick, this dessert brings a fresh, delightful spin that will impress everyone at your table. Prepare to indulge in a comforting yet sophisticated treat that’s surprisingly easy to assemble and perfect for any gathering.

Banana Pudding Tiramisu: A Delicious Twist on Two Classic Desserts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Banana Pudding Tiramisu: A Delicious Twist on Two Classic Desserts Recipe. Each component brings its own magic, from creamy textures to complementary flavors and that essential balance of sweetness and coffee bitterness.

Whole milk: Provides the creamy base for the pudding, ensuring a rich texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding evenly without overpowering flavors.
Cornstarch: Thickens the pudding beautifully for that luxurious mouthfeel.
Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness and depth of flavors.
Egg yolks: Add richness and help set the pudding’s smooth consistency.
Unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and a subtle, creamy finish to the pudding.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and sweetness to the pudding flavor profile.
Banana extract (optional): Intensifies the banana notes for a more pronounced fruity twist.
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Lightens the pudding with airy creaminess for perfect layering.
Ladyfingers: Classic tiramisu base that soaks up coffee and banana liqueur beautifully.
Strong brewed coffee: Provides the essential bitter contrast and classic tiramisu signature.
Banana liqueur or rum (optional): Adds complexity and a boozy hint to the coffee soak.
Ripe bananas: Fresh slices enhance the dessert’s texture and fruity flavor.
Lemon juice: Prevents bananas from browning, keeping them vibrant.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: For that iconic, bittersweet dusting on top.

How to Make Banana Pudding Tiramisu: A Delicious Twist on Two Classic Desserts Recipe

Step 1: Create the Banana Pudding Base

Start by whisking together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan until everything is velvety smooth. In a separate bowl, beat the yolks until pale and slowly temper them with a cup of the milk mixture—this keeps the eggs from scrambling. Combine everything back in the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the pudding thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Finish by stirring in butter, vanilla, and optional banana extract, then cover and chill for at least two hours to let flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Add Airy Lightness

Once the pudding has chilled, gently fold in the whipped topping to introduce a light, fluffy texture that perfectly balances the pudding’s density, making every spoonful delightfully creamy and smooth.

Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Soak

Brew a strong coffee and cool it completely. Mix in banana liqueur or rum if you want that extra adult touch. This soak is what transforms ladyfingers into the iconic soft layers imbued with subtle warmth and a hint of banana complexity.

Step 4: Slice and Treat the Bananas

Slice ripe bananas and toss them gently in lemon juice to preserve their fresh color and prevent browning, keeping your dessert as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

Lightly dip ladyfingers into the coffee mixture just a few seconds—don’t let them get soggy! Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of your dish, then spread half the banana pudding mixture over them, followed by half the sliced bananas. Repeat this layering step once more, finishing with bananas on top.

Step 6: Chill and Finish

Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least four hours, or overnight if possible. This step is crucial as it allows all the flavors to marry and the textures to set beautifully. Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for that stunning, signature touch.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Tiramisu: A Delicious Twist on Two Classic Desserts Recipe

Garnishes

For serving, a dusting of cocoa powder is classic and essential, but you can also add a few fresh banana slices or a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and extra aroma that complements the flavors beautifully. Toasted banana chips can add a delightful crunch if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a light dollop of freshly whipped cream. For coffee lovers, serve with a cup of espresso or cappuccino to complement the coffee notes in the tiramisu beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress your guests? Serve the Banana Pudding Tiramisu: A Delicious Twist on Two Classic Desserts Recipe in individual glass jars or stemmed parfait glasses to show off the pretty layers. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on top for a decadent finish that makes every bite feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Banana Pudding Tiramisu keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop even more over time.

Freezing

Freezing is possible but not ideal as the pudding’s texture may change slightly when thawed, becoming a touch grainy or watery. If you do freeze it, wrap it well and thaw slowly in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Because this is a chilled dessert, it’s best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge. Reheating is not recommended as it could compromise the texture and flavors that make the Banana Pudding Tiramisu so special.

FAQs

Can I make this Banana Pudding Tiramisu ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, preparing it a day ahead is ideal because it gives the flavors time to blend and the layers time to set perfectly, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

What if I don’t have banana liqueur or rum?

No worries! The banana liqueur or rum is optional and only adds a subtle depth. You can simply use the strong coffee soak alone and your tiramisu will still be delicious.

Can I substitute ladyfingers with another cookie?

While ladyfingers are traditional and soak up the coffee perfectly, you could try ladyfinger substitutes like sponge cake slices or graham crackers, but the texture and flavor will change somewhat.

Is it necessary to use banana extract?

Banana extract amplifies the banana flavor but is not essential. If you prefer a more natural taste, relying on fresh bananas alone works wonderfully and keeps the dessert more delicate.

How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

Tossing banana slices with a bit of lemon juice right before assembling prevents browning and keeps them looking fresh and inviting throughout serving.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Pudding Tiramisu: A Delicious Twist on Two Classic Desserts Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a hug on a plate. It combines comfort, elegance, and a playful twist that’s sure to become a dessert you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself, you can’t go wrong with this luscious, layered delight. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite!

Banana Pudding Tiramisu: A Delicious Twist on Two Classic Desserts Recipe

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3.9 from 65 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Banana Pudding Tiramisu is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts—banana pudding and classic tiramisu. This creamy, layered dessert features smooth banana-flavored custard, tender ladyfingers soaked in coffee and banana liqueur, and fresh bananas, all topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. Perfect for banana lovers looking for a creamy, coffee-infused treat with a tropical twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Mixture

4 cups whole milk
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large egg yolks
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon banana extract (optional but recommended)

Other Ingredients

1 (12 ounce) container whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
1 (7 ounce) package ladyfingers (about 24–30 cookies)
1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
2 tablespoons banana liqueur (like crème de banane) or rum (optional)
3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
2 tablespoons lemon juice (to prevent browning)
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

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Instructions

Prepare the Custard: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Temper the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they turn slightly pale. Slowly drizzle one cup of the milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper them and prevent curdling.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture and stir well.
Cook the Custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture thickens and reaches a simmer, about 5 to 7 minutes. The custard should coat the back of a spoon.
Add Flavorings: Remove from heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and banana extract (if using) until the butter melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
Chill the Custard: Transfer the pudding to a bowl, cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, until fully chilled.
Fold in Whipped Topping: Once chilled, gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the custard to lighten it.
Prepare Coffee Soak: Brew strong coffee and allow it to cool completely. In a shallow dish, combine the cooled coffee with banana liqueur or rum if using.
Prepare Bananas: Just before assembling, slice the bananas and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Soak Ladyfingers: Lightly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for a few seconds without soaking them excessively.
First Ladyfinger Layer: Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish or trifle bowl.
First Custard Layer: Spread half of the banana pudding mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
First Banana Layer: Arrange half of the sliced bananas evenly over the pudding layer.
Second Ladyfinger Layer: Dip the remaining ladyfingers quickly in the coffee soak and arrange them over the banana slices.
Second Custard Layer: Spread the remaining banana pudding evenly over the ladyfingers.
Second Banana Layer: Arrange the remaining sliced bananas on top of the final pudding layer.
Chill the Assembled Dessert: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and dessert to set.
Finish and Serve: Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Slice, plate, and enjoy your Banana Pudding Tiramisu!

Notes

To prevent bananas from browning, toss them immediately with lemon juice after slicing.
Use strong brewed coffee for the best flavor contrast with the sweet custard.
The banana extract is optional but enhances the banana flavor without adding extra sweetness or moisture.
Ladyfingers should be dipped quickly to avoid sogginess; they should remain slightly firm to hold layers.
This dessert is best after chilling overnight to allow the flavors to develop fully.
If banana liqueur or rum is unavailable, you may omit it for a non-alcoholic version.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American