Banana Custard Recipe
Introduction
Banana custard is a creamy, comforting dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. This smooth and velvety custard is simple to make and perfect for a sweet treat any time of year.

Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
- 4 egg yolks
- 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel and smash the bananas until smooth with no large chunks. Place them in a large saucepan, add the milk and vanilla, and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture begins to bubble. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until the mixture is lighter in color and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Step 3: Slowly pour the cooled milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly down the side of the bowl to avoid curdling. Whisk until fully combined.
- Step 4: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low-medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens and begins to bubble, resembling pudding. Remove from heat, then stir in the butter and salt until the butter melts completely.
- Step 5: Transfer the custard to a heatproof bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Step 6: Enjoy your rich and creamy banana custard as a dessert or snack.
Tips & Variations
- Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with coconut milk and use a vegan butter alternative.
- If you prefer a smoother custard, strain the mixture before chilling.
Storage
Store the banana custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking continuously until warmed through, or enjoy chilled.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Thaw them completely and mash well before incorporating into the recipe.
What can I do if my custard is too thick or too thin?
If the custard is too thick, stir in a little milk while gently reheating. If it’s too thin, cook it a bit longer over low heat, whisking constantly until it thickens to the desired consistency.
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Banana Custard Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This silky banana custard is a creamy, luscious dessert made with ripe bananas, rich whole milk, and a smooth custard base thickened with egg yolks and cornstarch. Perfect as a standalone treat or as a filling for pastries, this recipe delivers a naturally sweet and comforting flavor with the warmth of vanilla and a buttery finish.
Ingredients
Custard Base
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
- 4 egg yolks
- 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 Tbsp butter
Instructions
- Prepare the bananas and milk mixture: Peel and mash the ripe bananas thoroughly until no large chunks remain. Place the mashed bananas in a large saucepan, add the whole milk and vanilla bean paste, and stir to combine. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to bubble, then remove from heat and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Whisk the egg mixture: In a large bowl, combine the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk them vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes lighter in color and fluffy, which helps create a smooth custard texture.
- Temper the eggs: Slowly pour the cooled banana and milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly. Pour the liquid down the side of the bowl to prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly. Continue whisking until fully incorporated.
- Cook the custard: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low-medium heat. Stir continuously with a whisk until the custard thickens and bubbles, achieving a pudding-like consistency. Remove from the heat once thickened.
- Finalize the custard: Stir in the butter and salt while whisking until the butter melts completely and the custard is smooth and glossy.
- Chill the custard: Transfer the banana custard to a heatproof bowl and cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Seal and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the custard chilled as a dessert on its own or use as a filling for cakes, tarts, or pastries for a deliciously creamy banana flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and better flavor.
- Whisk constantly while cooking the custard to prevent it from curdling or sticking to the pan.
- The plastic wrap pressed on the custard’s surface prevents a skin from forming as it cools.
- This custard can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute milk with a lower-fat option, though it may affect creaminess.
- Vanilla bean paste adds more depth of flavor compared to extract but either works well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: banana custard, creamy dessert, banana dessert, custard recipe, homemade banana pudding

