Gordon Ramsay’s banana pudding is a refined, made-from-scratch version of the classic American dessert. It features layers of vanilla custard, sliced bananas, and cookies (typically vanilla wafers or sponge), finished with whipped cream. Unlike instant mix versions, this pudding is slow-cooked for depth and elegance.
500ml whole milk
200ml heavy cream
100g granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
1 whole egg
30g cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
4–5 ripe bananas, thinly sliced
200g vanilla wafers or sponge fingers
Whipped cream, for topping
Toasted coconut flakes
Caramel drizzle or crushed nuts
Warm the milk and cream: In a saucepan, heat milk and cream over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
Whisk egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, whole egg, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla until smooth.
Temper the eggs: Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
Cook the custard: Return the mixture to the pan and cook on low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens—about 5–7 minutes. Do not boil.
Chill the custard: Transfer to a bowl, cover with cling film touching the surface, and chill for at least 1 hour until cool.
Assemble the pudding: In a trifle dish or glass cups, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and cooled custard. Repeat layers until the dish is filled.
Top with whipped cream: Spread or pipe whipped cream over the top layer of custard. Garnish as desired.
Chill before serving: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.