Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried banana bread pudding yet, you’re in for a real treat! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine the rich, creamy custard perfectly soaking into chunks of bread, all while the sweet aroma of ripe bananas fills your kitchen. It’s comforting, versatile, and oh-so-delicious! What I love most about this recipe is how the bananas add a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the custard, creating a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. You can serve it warm, drizzled with caramel or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you. So, grab those overripe bananas and let’s dive into this sweet, indulgent experience together!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delicious banana bread pudding, you’ll need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed – I recommend using brioche or challah for that extra richness, but any sturdy bread will do.
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed – The riper, the better! They should be speckled with brown for maximum sweetness.
- 4 large eggs – These help bind everything together, so make sure they’re fresh.
- 2 cups whole milk – This adds creaminess; don’t skimp on the fat here!
- 1 cup heavy cream – For that luscious custard texture. Trust me, it’s worth it!
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the pudding beautifully, balancing the bananas.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Pure vanilla is best for the richest flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth; a must-have!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in this dish.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) – For a delightful crunch! Feel free to leave them out if you prefer.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds!
How to Prepare Banana Bread Pudding
Making this banana bread pudding is a delightful journey! Follow these steps, and I promise you’ll have a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Let’s get started!
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish (9×13 inches works great) and grease it generously with butter or cooking spray. This will help avoid any sticky situations later!
Combining Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed day-old bread with the mashed bananas. You really want to mix them together until they’re well incorporated. Then, in another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until it’s smooth and creamy. Pour this heavenly mixture over the bread and banana combo, making sure every piece of bread is soaked. This soaking is key to that rich custard texture we all love!
Baking Process
Now, transfer your mixture into the greased baking dish and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is gloriously golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary. If you notice it browning too quickly, just cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Banana bread pudding is one of those desserts that just feels like home. It’s rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to for so many occasions. Here are just a few reasons why I adore this recipe:
- Rich Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and custard creates a deep, luscious flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip this up—even if you’re short on time!
- Comforting Nature: There’s something so nurturing about a warm bowl of this pudding, perfect for cozy evenings or a sweet treat after dinner.
- Versatility: You can easily customize it with your favorite additions, whether that’s nuts, chocolate, or even a hint of spice!
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields generous servings, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Tips for Success
To truly elevate your banana bread pudding, here are some insider tips that have worked wonders for me over the years. First off, consider using brioche or challah bread instead of regular bread for a richer texture and flavor. If you want a hint of spice, try adding a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon—it’s magical! Another fun twist is to fold in some chocolate chips or raisins for added sweetness and texture. Personally, I love experimenting with different types of milk; using almond milk can give it a lovely nutty flavor, while coconut milk adds a tropical flair. Just remember, the riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your pudding will be! So don’t hesitate to let those bananas get a little spotty. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for a slice of this delightful banana bread pudding. Each serving typically contains around 350 calories, with 18g of fat, 6g of protein, and 40g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! The type of bread you use can significantly impact the texture and flavor of your banana bread pudding. For a richer taste, I recommend brioche or challah, as they soak up the custard beautifully and give a lovely, soft texture. If you prefer a heartier pudding, whole grain or sourdough can add a delightful chewiness. Just remember, the drier the bread, the better it will absorb the custard mixture without getting too mushy!
How do I store leftovers?
If you find yourself with any delicious leftovers (though I doubt it!), you can store your banana bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop it back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. A little scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top makes it even more tempting!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can totally make this banana bread pudding ahead of time! I love prepping it the night before, letting it soak in the fridge overnight, and then popping it in the oven just before serving. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. It’s a real lifesaver for gatherings or busy weeknights!
Variations
One of the best things about banana bread pudding is how adaptable it is! You can really get creative with this recipe. For a fun twist, try adding spices like nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for a warm, aromatic flavor. If you’re a chocolate lover, fold in some chocolate chips or chunks to the custard mixture for a decadent treat. You can also switch up the fruit—try adding fresh blueberries or chopped apples for a delightful change. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of rum or bourbon can add a grown-up flair that enhances the flavors beautifully. Don’t forget, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts or even a handful of dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for extra texture. The possibilities are endless—get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving banana bread pudding, the options are endless! I love to serve it warm with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for that perfect contrast of warm and cold. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch too. For an extra burst of flavor, consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or even a side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced strawberries. This sweet treat is sure to impress your guests and elevate any meal!
Print
Banana Bread Pudding: 7 Steps to a Sweet Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy banana bread pudding that combines the flavors of ripe bananas and custard, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and mashed bananas.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and banana mixture. Ensure all bread is soaked.
- If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use brioche or challah bread.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- You can add raisins or chocolate chips for variation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: banana bread pudding, dessert, custard, baking
