magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf with Dark Chocolate Fudge Swirl

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I always find that desserts are more satisfying when they’re made ahead of time, allowing you to relax and enjoy the gathering with family instead of rushing around in the kitchen at the last minute. This recipe delivers big flavor and texture with minimal fuss, transforming a classic dessert into a showstopper with a dark chocolate swirl. It takes the familiar, easy magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf and adds an extra layer of richness that’s perfect for celebrations. By incorporating simple, high-quality ingredients and a make-ahead method, you can achieve a truly spectacular result that everyone will ask for. This version of the magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf uses a clever layering technique that creates distinct ribbons of rich chocolate fudge and creamy vanilla pudding, truly elevating the traditional dessert.

magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf — Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe Pdf 9

Ingredients

For the Cooked Vanilla Pudding Base:

4 large egg yolks: These are essential for creating a rich, custard-like base and providing necessary thickening.
100 g (0.5 cups) granulated sugar: For sweetness and to balance the flavor.
30 g (1/4 cup) cornstarch: The primary thickening agent that gives the pudding body.
360 ml (1.5 cups) whole milk: Provides the liquid base; use whole milk for the creamiest results, or 2% milk if that’s what you keep on hand.
10 ml (2 tsp) alcohol-free vanilla extract: Adds depth and aroma to the base.

For the Creamy Filling:

480 ml (2 cups) heavy whipping cream, cold: Whipped to stiff peaks, this creates the light, airy texture of the final pudding.
397 g (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, cold: This provides both sweetness and structure to the filling.
226 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: A crucial ingredient that adds a subtle tang and stabilizes the pudding. For an even richer taste, use mascarpone cheese.

For the Dark Chocolate Fudge Swirl:

55 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter: Provides richness and a smooth texture for the fudge sauce.
40 g (1/2 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides the deep, rich chocolate flavor.
120 g (1 cup) powdered sugar: To sweeten the dark cocoa and create a smooth sauce texture.
2 g (1/4 tsp) fine sea salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
60 ml (1/4 cup) water: Helps dissolve the sugar and create a pourable consistency.

For the Layers and Garnish:

340 g (12 oz) vanilla wafers (Nilla Wafers): The classic choice for layering; they soften beautifully when soaked in the pudding.
6-8 medium ripe bananas, sliced 1 cm (0.4 inch) thick: Ripe bananas provide the best flavor, but avoid mushy ones.
10 g (0.35 oz) dark chocolate, for shaving (garnish): For a professional finish and a contrasting touch.

Instructions

Here’s how to make this delicious twist on the magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf. The process is straightforward, but taking time for chilling and proper mixing is key to success.

Prepare the Vanilla Pudding Base (First Step)
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth. Cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk, until it thickens significantly and comes to a gentle boil (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from heat immediately and stir in the alcohol-free vanilla extract. Transfer the pudding to a shallow bowl, cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and chill for at least 2 hours, or until completely cold.
Make the Chocolate Fudge Swirl
While the pudding base chills, make the chocolate fudge swirl. In a small saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar, fine sea salt, and water. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until the butter is melted, the sugar is dissolved, and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened (about 3-5 minutes). The result should be a pourable, glossy fudge sauce. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Creamy Filling Base
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cold heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form; set this aside. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the cold sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese, beating until well combined and fluffy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix and deflate the light texture.
Combine and Create the Swirl
Gently fold the chilled vanilla pudding base into the creamy filling until uniform and smooth. Pour half of the cooled chocolate fudge sauce over the top of the combined vanilla cream mixture. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the chocolate through the cream mixture 2-3 times, creating distinct ribbons and marbling without fully incorporating it. Reserve the remaining fudge sauce for garnish. I once made this in a large glass bowl for a gathering, and I learned quickly to be gentle with the swirling; overmixing completely loses the beautiful marble effect.
Assemble the Pudding Layers
In a large 3-liter (3-quart) trifle dish or 8-10 individual clear glass dessert bowls, arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom. Top with a layer of sliced bananas, ensuring they cover most of the wafers. Spoon a generous layer of the chocolate-swirled creamy pudding mixture over the bananas, spreading it evenly.
Repeat and Chill
Repeat the layering process: add another layer of vanilla wafers, followed by sliced bananas, and then another layer of the chocolate-swirled pudding mixture. Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the pudding mixture on top. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the wafers to soften and flavors to meld fully.
Serve and Garnish
To serve, scoop the banana pudding into clear glass bowls or serve directly from the trifle dish. Drizzle generously with the reserved chocolate fudge sauce, allowing it to naturally drip down the sides. Finely shave the dark chocolate over the top for an elegant, contrasting finish that highlights the rich chocolate swirl within the pudding.

The Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert Strategy

This specific magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf truly shines when made ahead. Plan to assemble it 6 to 24 hours before serving. This allows the wafers to fully soften and absorb the creamy pudding base, which is key to the texture. To keep the bananas looking fresh, ensure they are completely submerged in the pudding layers during assembly. Store the pudding tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; do not freeze, as the texture of the cream and bananas will change significantly upon thawing.

Customizing Your Chocolate Swirl Twist

The dark chocolate swirl in this magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf adds a wonderful complexity that balances the sweetness. If you want a more intense chocolate flavor than the traditional magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf, this variation is perfect. If you prefer a milder chocolate flavor, swap out the dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate chips when making the fudge sauce, or add an extra pinch of sugar. For a double-chocolate twist, try using chocolate wafers instead of vanilla wafers in the layers. You can also sprinkle mini chocolate chips or cocoa nibs into the pudding layers for extra texture and crunch.

Troubleshooting Common Banana Pudding Questions

Why did my pudding base get lumpy or scorched during cooking?

To avoid lumps, ensure the cornstarch and egg yolks are fully incorporated into the cold milk before heating. The key is to stir continuously over medium-low heat; high heat will scorch the bottom and curdle the eggs.

My final pudding mixture seems runny after chilling. What went wrong?

The key here is to chill the cooked vanilla pudding base completely before folding it into the cream cheese mixture. If it’s warm, it will melt the whipped cream and thin out the mixture. Also, make sure the heavy cream was whipped to stiff peaks before folding.

How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

The bananas will naturally darken over time due to oxidation. To minimize this, layer them just before covering the dish and refrigerating. The layers of pudding create a seal that slows the process.

FAQs: Quick Tips for Making This Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe PDF

Can I use instant pudding mix?

No, this recipe requires a homemade cooked pudding base with egg yolks and cornstarch for the correct texture and richness. Instant pudding will not yield the same creamy, luxurious results as this specific magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf.

What’s the best way to slice the bananas for layering?

Slice them evenly, about 1 cm thick (0.4 inches). Ripe bananas are essential for flavor, but avoid overly soft or mushy ones that might fall apart.

Why use cream cheese in addition to whipped cream?

The cream cheese provides necessary structure and tang to balance the sweetness of the condensed milk and whipped cream, creating the signature creamy texture of this particular recipe. I always use very cold sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream for the best results; it helps prevent separation.

How long does this pudding last in the refrigerator?

The pudding will keep well for up to 3 days when tightly covered. The wafers will become softer each day, which is actually a desired part of the experience.

Can I make this dairy-free?

While this specific magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf relies on heavy cream, cream cheese, and condensed milk, you could substitute coconut cream, vegan cream cheese, and a non-dairy condensed milk alternative. The texture may differ slightly, but it still makes a delicious dessert.

What size dish should I use?

A standard 3-quart (3-liter) trifle dish or 9×13 pan works well. For individual servings, use 8-10 clear dessert glasses.

Conclusion

This magnolia bakery banana pudding recipe pdf with dark chocolate swirl offers a rich, comforting, and elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This family-friendly recipe is a classic for a reason. The make-ahead preparation allows you to minimize stress and maximize enjoyment when hosting. Save this recipe and plan to make this showstopper dessert for your next family gathering this weekend.

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Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe Pdf