VICKI'S REAL BANANA PUDDING

When we were visiting with our friends, Vicki and Don, in Atlanta recently, for dinner she made her daughter's Dinner in One Dish. 

The meal was delicious. But to top it off, Vicki made Real Banana Pudding. I have to stress "Real" because I am guilty of always using instant pudding mix when I make banana pudding. I'm sorry...it is just so easy.

But if I am honest...nothing tastes like the "Real Thing" and I'm not talking about Coke.  I really wanted a second helping but I was afraid they would think I was a pig. So I just have to make some for myself.  You can bet, I will be making it by Vicki's recipe.

Vicki gives credit to Nilla Wafers for the recipe with a few personal changes.

VICKI'S REAL BANANA PUDDING

3/4     cup sugar, divided
1/3     cup flour
dash of salt
3        eggs, separated
2        cups skim milk
1/2     teaspoon vanilla
Reduced-fat vanilla wafers
3        ripe bananas, sliced

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Mix 1/2 cup of the sugar, flour, and salt in the top of a double boiler.  Blend in 3 egg yolks and milk.

Cook, uncovered over boiling water (in the bottom pan) 10 - 12 minutes or until thickened, stirring constantly.

Remove from heat; stir in the vanilla.

Pour just enough of the pudding mixture to cover the bottom of a 2 quart casserole.

Place a layer of vanilla wafers on top.

Then a layer of sliced bananas.

Repeat with another layer of the pudding, then wafers, and lastly banana slices.

Finish off with the last of the pudding.

Make the meringue: 

Beat the egg whites on high til soft peaks form.  Gradually add 1/4 cup of sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.

Spoon meringue over the top of the pudding.  Spread evenly sealing the edges.

Bake 15 - 20 minutes or until browned.