Tennessee Grilled Banana Pudding Delight

Introduction

This Tennessee Grilled Banana Pudding is a smoky twist on the classic Southern dessert. We use the Arteflame Grill to perfectly caramelize sweet banana slices on the flat griddle cooktop. Paired with silky vanilla pudding and crispy cookies, this recipe is sure to wow your guests and bring that homemade comfort with a gourmet grilled flair. The best part? You’ll do it all outdoors with no pots, no pans—just the incredible performance of your Arteflame grill.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced lengthwise
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold whole milk
• 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
• 20 vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies
• Optional: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame Grill.
3. Stack firewood over top of the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the fire to build and the cooktop to heat up—about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Pudding

1. While the grill is heating, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk in a bowl.
2. Refrigerate for 5 minutes to set.
3. Once set, gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Grill the Banana Slices

1. Butter the Arteflame flat top cooktop near the center zone (higher heat zone).
2. Place banana slices flat side down on the buttered griddle.
3. Grill for 1–2 minutes per side until deeply golden and caramelized but still firm.
4. Carefully remove and keep warm at the edge of the cooktop or a plate.

Step 4: Assemble the Grilled Banana Pudding

1. Layer cookies on the bottom of serving glasses or a grill-safe dish.
2. Add a spoonful of pudding mixture over the cookies.
3. Top with a couple grilled banana slices.
4. Repeat layers as desired, finishing with bananas and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Tips

• Choose ripe but firm bananas for grilling—they hold up better under heat.
• Butter gives a rich flavor and helps with caramelization; avoid olive oil here.
• Stay near the hotter cooktop zones for quick searing, adjust positioning to avoid overcooking.
• Grill all components at once—the Arteflame surface gives you enough room.
• Serve slightly warm or chilled depending on preference—it’s delicious both ways!

Variations

1. Chocolate Lovers: Add a drizzle of grilled chocolate sauce and use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla.
2. Berry Banana Bliss: Top with grilled strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
3. Nutty Crunch: Add crushed pecans or grilled nuts between the layers for texture.
4. Bourbon Banana Pudding: Flambé bananas with a splash of Tennessee bourbon before layering.
5. Tropical Delight: Use coconut pudding and top with grilled pineapple chunks alongside bananas.

Conclusion

Grilling desserts like this Tennessee Banana Pudding shows just what your Arteflame Grill is capable of—elevating a southern favorite with smoky, caramelized complexity and visual appeal. No need for ovens or pans, just a hot grill and flavorful ingredients. Whether you keep it traditional or explore one of our variations, it’s always delicious straight off the grill.

Best Pairings

• Sweet Iced Tea with Mint
• Charcoal-Roasted Coffee
• Grilled Pineapple with Honey Drizzle
• Tennessee Whiskey for a Southern punch