Real Banana Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 37
2. 2
   Whisk together first 3 ingredients in a small bowl.
3. 3
   Whisk together sugar mixture, milk, and 4 egg yolks in a medium-size heavy saucepan until well blended. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 6 to 8 minutes or until thickened.
4. 4
   Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla.
5. 5
   Layer half of vanilla wafers in an 8-inch square baking dish. Top with half of banana slices and half of pudding. Repeat procedure with remaining wafers, banana slices, and pudding.
6. 6
   Beat egg whites at high speed with an electric mixer until foamy. Gradually add 3 Tbsp. sugar, beating until sugar dissolves and stiff peaks form.
7. 7
   Spread meringue over pudding, sealing to edge of dish.
8. 8
   Bake at 375 for 7 to 10 minutes or until golden.
9. 9
   Let cool 30 minutes, and serve warm; or chill an additional hour, and serve cold.