Introduction
There’s something inherently comforting about a warm dessert that fills the home with delightful aromas—like this scrumptious Banana Bread Pudding. Imagine luscious, ripe bananas mingling with the sweetness of day-old banana bread, all enveloped in a rich, creamy custard. This dish is the perfect way to transform leftover banana bread into a dreamy, comforting treat that brings smiles to the faces of family and friends. Whether served for brunch or dessert, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 4 cups of cubed day-old banana bread
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will set the stage for your pudding to bake to golden perfection.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended and smooth.
- Next, gently place the cubed banana bread into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If you’re using nuts, now is the time to sprinkle them evenly over the top of the bread.
- Pour the banana mixture over the cubed bread, making sure to cover all the pieces evenly. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the custard.
- Let the mixture rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the cubed bread to soak up all that delicious banana goodness.
- Now, pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Your pudding should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and it’s divine with a dollop of whipped cream on top!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or some chocolate chips to the banana mixture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with a fruity yogurt for a lighter twist on this traditional dessert. And don’t forget—leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, so you can enjoy this treat again and again!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe relies on a simple baking technique that is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. The key is allowing the bread to soak in the custard mixture, which creates that wonderful soft texture while baking. Keeping an eye on the baking time will ensure that you achieve that perfect golden top that’s both inviting and delicious!
FAQ
Can I use fresh banana bread instead of day-old?
While day-old banana bread is ideal for this recipe, fresh banana bread can also work. Just ensure it’s slightly dried out to prevent sogginess.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pudding the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just give it about an extra 10 minutes of baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
What can I serve with Banana Bread Pudding?
A dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate this dessert to new heights!
Conclusion
This Banana Bread Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug served on a plate. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, it turns simple ingredients into a comforting delight that everyone will love. So gather your loved ones, whip up this recipe, and enjoy the blissful flavors that come from making each bite a little sweeter.