Banana Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Separate the yolks from the whites of 3 eggs.
2. 2
   Set aside the whites.
3. 3
   In the top of a double boiler, whisk together 1/2 cup of the sugar, the flour, and the salt.
4. 4
   Stir in the whole egg and the 3 yolks, and then stir in the milk.
5. 5
   Cook uncovered, stirring often, for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
6. 6
   Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla.
7. 7
   Preheat the oven to 425F.
8. 8
   Spread a thin layer of pudding in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
9. 9
   Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers on top of the pudding.
10. 10
    Thinly slice the bananas crosswise, about 1/8 inch thick, and arrange a layer of banana slices over the wafers.
11. 11
    Spread one-third of the remaining pudding over the bananas and continue layering wafers, bananas, and pudding, ending with pudding.
12. 12
    To make the meringue, beat the reserved egg whites with a pinch of salt until they are stiff.
13. 13
    Gradually beat in the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating until the whites will not slide out of the mixing bowl when it is tilted.
14. 14
    Spread the meringue over the pudding with a spatula, making a few decorative peaks on top, and bake for 5 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned.
15. 15
    Wait, if you can, to allow the wafers to become soft before serving.