Classic Southern Banana Pudding

Begin by creating a base layer in your glass bowl, using a single layer of wafer cookies to line the bottom. Next, add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the cookie base. As you build your dessert tower, set aside 10 wafer cookies to be crushed and used as a topping later on.

In a separate bowl, combine sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in cream, adding it 1/4 cup at a time to prevent lumps. Add milk and butter to the mixture, stirring until smooth.

Transfer a portion of your sugar mixture to a saucepan and slowly whisk in cream, stirring constantly over medium heat. As the mixture thickens, remove it from the heat source after 3 to 5 minutes.

In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add a few tablespoons of the warm custard mixture to the eggs, stirring until well combined. Return the egg/custard mixture to the saucepan and continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly until the custard reaches a thick consistency, similar to coating the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Allow your custard mixture to cool for approximately 20 minutes before proceeding. Once cooled, slowly pour the mixture over the layers of wafers and bananas in your glass bowl. Gently shake the bowl to ensure the custard seeps evenly throughout, coating all layers.

Finally, sprinkle the crushed wafer cookies over the top of your dessert, adding a crunchy texture to this sweet treat.