Irresistible Banana Bread Pudding Recipe to Savor Today

There’s something magical about banana bread pudding that makes it a comforting classic. Imagine warm, custardy goodness filled with sweet, ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in like moths to a flame, promising a cozy experience. This dish is not only delicious but also a nostalgic trip down memory lane, often reminding us of family gatherings or lazy Sunday brunches.

The beauty of banana bread pudding lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can whip it up for breakfast, dessert, or even as a midnight snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for this indulgent treat that promises an explosion of flavors and textures in every bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delightful banana bread pudding is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days
  • Its rich flavor profile combines the sweetness of bananas with creamy custard and spices
  • The golden-brown crust adds visual appeal, making it a feast for the eyes as well
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy warm or cold, any time of day!

I still remember the first time I made banana bread pudding; it was during a rainy afternoon when I was stuck at home. My family’s reactions were priceless—they devoured it within minutes, leaving me wondering if I should start charging for my culinary skills!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are brown-spotted for maximum sweetness and flavor.

  • Stale Bread: Use leftover bread like brioche or challah for the best texture; fresh bread may become too soggy.

  • Eggs: Large eggs work best in creating a rich custard base.

  • Milk: Whole milk provides creaminess; feel free to use any milk substitute if needed.

  • Sugar: Granulated sugar enhances sweetness; you can adjust the amount based on your preference.

  • Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds aromatic depth—don’t skimp on this ingredient!

  • Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon brings warmth and spice to your pudding.

  • Butter: Melted butter helps create a beautiful golden crust on top.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Get ready to embark on this delicious journey!

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your banana bread pudding bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden brown color.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup much easier later on.

Mash Those Bananas!: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You want them creamy with just a few lumps—this adds texture!

Create the Custard Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. This mixture will envelop your bread and bananas in creamy goodness.

Add Bread and Bananas: Tear the stale bread into chunks and fold them gently into the custard mixture along with the mashed bananas. Make sure all pieces are coated but don’t overmix—gentleness is key!

Bake It Up!: Pour everything into your prepared baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes until set and golden brown on top. The aroma will be heavenly!

Now sit back, relax, and wait for that delightful moment when you can dig into your warm banana bread pudding!

You Must Know

  • Banana bread pudding is an irresistible treat, combining the sweetness of bananas with a comforting custard
  • The combination creates a luscious texture and aroma that fills your kitchen, making it perfect for brunch or dessert
  • Don’t skip the caramel drizzle for an extra indulgence

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For banana bread pudding, start by mixing your custard while preheating the oven to 350°F. Layer your ingredients efficiently to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to elevate your banana bread pudding. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance the overall flavor profile beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through for best texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Allow stale bread to soak longer in the custard for richer flavor
  • Don’t rush baking; a golden top ensures a delicious crust
  • Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor

Each time I make banana bread pudding, my friends rave about how it tastes like a warm hug on a plate! Their smiles are truly worth every effort spent in the kitchen.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of bread is best for banana bread pudding?

Use brioche or challah for their richness and ability to absorb custard without falling apart.

Can I make banana bread pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and bake just before serving for best results.

How do I know when my banana bread pudding is done?

It’s ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted comes out cleanly.

Print
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Irresistible Banana Bread Pudding


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  • Author: Rachel Lawson
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Serves approximately 8

Description

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of banana bread pudding—a delightful dessert that combines sweet, ripe bananas with creamy custard and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this simple recipe is sure to evoke nostalgia and create cherished memories. With a golden-brown crust and a luscious texture, every bite promises an explosion of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ripe bananas (mashed)
  • 4 cups stale brioche or challah bread (torn into chunks)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 4 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth but slightly chunky for texture.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
  4. Fold the torn bread chunks and mashed bananas into the custard mixture, ensuring all pieces are coated without overmixing.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes until set and golden brown on top.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 59g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg
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About the author
Rachel Lawson
Hi, I’m Rachel, the heart and soul behind Cooking with Rachel. My journey into the culinary world began as a personal escape—turning simple ingredients into nourishing meals that bring comfort and joy. With a deep passion for wholesome cooking, I create recipes that balance flavor and well-being, proving that healthy eating can be both delicious and satisfying.

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