There’s something incredibly comforting about the rich, sweet aroma of banana bread pudding wafting through the kitchen. Imagine the moment you pull it from the oven, its warm, golden crust inviting you to dive in. This dish isn’t just another dessert; it’s a nostalgic hug for the soul, turning humble ingredients like stale bread and ripe bananas into a luscious treat that feels both indulgent and cozy.
I discovered this delightful recipe during a rainy afternoon, with an overripe bunch of bananas calling out for attention. I was tired of the same old banana bread and wanted to try something new. The combination of custardy goodness and crunchy walnuts creates a perfect contrast, while the sweet brown sugar sauce takes it over the top. Trust me, this banana bread pudding is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s roll up our sleeves and create a cozy dessert that warms the heart and revitalizes our love for homemade food!
Why is Banana Bread Pudding a Must-Try?
Comforting Bliss: This Banana Bread Pudding is the ultimate comfort food, wrapping you in a deliciously warm embrace.
Simple Ingredients: With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a sumptuous dessert that’s perfect for both weekdays and special occasions.
Unforgettable Flavor: The heavenly blend of ripe bananas, spices, and creamy goodness will leave your taste buds dancing in delight.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy guests young and old.
Easy to Make: Spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the moments that matter, with a quick prep time and easy steps.
Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, this recipe will become your go-to sweet treat, brightening up any day!
Banana Bread Pudding Ingredients
• Dive into creating this delightful Banana Bread Pudding with a few simple yet nourishing ingredients.
For the Pudding
- 16 oz loaf French bread – Cut into 1-2” cubes; this provides the sturdy base for our pudding.
- 4 eggs – They bind the mixture and give it a rich, custardy texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Adds a lovely richness; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- 1 1/2 cup milk – Regular milk works perfectly, but almond or oat milk can be used for a non-dairy alternative.
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk – Sweetens the pudding and gives it a velvety mouthfeel.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Brings a deep caramel flavor; light brown sugar is ideal, but dark can add even more richness.
- 1 Tbs vanilla – Enhances the overall sweetness and flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract whenever possible.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; nutmeg can be swapped in for a twist.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg – Delivers an fragrant touch, beautifully complementing the bananas.
- 1/4 tsp allspice – A pinch introduces a complex flavor, setting this dessert apart.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors in the dish.
- 4 ripe bananas – The star of the show; ensure they’re well-mashed for maximum sweetness.
- 1 1/4 cup chopped walnuts – Their crunch adds delightful texture; use pecans for a different flavor.
For the Sauce
- 3 Tbs butter – Rich and creamy, this forms the base of your sauce; you can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – Sweetens the sauce, mirroring the pudding’s flavor for a perfect pairing.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla – Ties in the flavors from the pudding; don’t skip this for a seamless taste.
- Splash of milk – Gives the sauce a lovely pourable consistency; any milk will do!
Gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a warm dessert that will become a cherished family favorite!
How to Make Banana Bread Pudding
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Preheat oven: Set the oven to 350°F, creating the perfect environment for your pudding to bake beautifully.
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Prepare bread: Place your cubed French bread into a large bowl and set it aside, allowing ample space for soaking up the delicious custard.
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Mix custard: In another large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt until everything is combined and creamy.
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Add bananas and walnuts: Stir in the mashed bananas and 1 cup of chopped walnuts, ensuring every bite will be packed with flavor and crunch.
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Combine and soak: Pour the rich mixture over the diced bread cubes, gently stirring to coat. Let it sit for about 20 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb all that wonderful custard.
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Prepare baking dish: While the bread soaks, spray a 9″x13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This will help create a nicely browned bottom!
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Bake the pudding: After soaking, spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish, topping it with the remaining walnuts. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the center is set, and the top is lightly toasted.
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Cool down: Once out of the oven, let your banana bread pudding cool for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Make the sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together brown sugar, butter, vanilla, and a splash of milk. Microwave until it bubbles, stirring every 30 seconds for a smooth, luscious sauce.
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Serve: Drizzle the warm sauce over your banana bread pudding, slice into generous pieces, and serve with love!
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These deliciously easy Banana Bread Pudding bites can be made ahead of time, perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the custard mixture (eggs, cream, milk, sugars, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, take your prepared mixture out, stir in the mashed bananas and walnuts, and let the bread soak for about 20 minutes before spreading it in the baking dish. For optimal quality, bake the pudding shortly before serving; this way, it remains fresh, warm, and absolutely delightful. Your family will love the comforting aroma that fills the kitchen, just like freshly baked goodness!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Pudding?
Pairing this delightful banana bread pudding with complementary elements turns a simple dessert into a complete, cherished experience.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the creamy pudding. The vibrant flavors will brighten every bite.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, fluffy whipped cream enhances the dessert’s indulgence, adding just the right amount of sweetness and decadence.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and rich, vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm banana bread pudding, creating a blissfully delightful experience.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice introduces a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm pudding.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dust: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top of the pudding before serving intensifies the warmth and spice, giving an extra element of flavor and texture.
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Nutty Topping: Toasted chopped walnuts or pecans not only provide an appealing crunch but also enhance the nuttiness already present in the pudding.
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Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee is the perfect accompaniment to this dessert, balancing the sweetness with a comforting, rich flavor.
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Hot Chocolate: For a cozy, indulgent pairing, serve with a cup of hot chocolate; the chocolatey notes complement the banana and create a warm embrace.
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Chai Tea: The unique spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the pudding, creating a comforting duo that warms the heart.
Banana Bread Pudding Variations
Customize your Banana Bread Pudding for an exciting twist on this classic favorite!
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds, use almond milk, and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a plant-based delight.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips or chunks into the custard mixture for a decadent chocolate touch. Chocolate and bananas are a match made in heaven!
- Fruit Fusion: Add diced apples or berries along with the bananas for a fruity explosion and a burst of vibrant color. This twist elevates the sweetness even more!
- Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch without the nuts. Your pudding will still be satisfying without the worry of allergies!
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce between layers before baking for an irresistible gooey sweetness that will have everyone begging for seconds.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne or a dash of chili powder in the custard for an unexpected but delightful heat that complements the sweet bananas.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make a delicious, inclusive version that everyone can enjoy at the table.
- Boozy Infusion: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture for an adult twist that elevates the flavor profile beautifully!
These delightful variations invite creativity, letting you personalize your Banana Bread Pudding and make it your own. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and textures!
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Pudding
Use Stale Bread: Opt for slightly stale French bread to ensure it absorbs the custard well. Fresh bread may become too soggy.
Mix Gently: When combining the banana and walnut mixture with the bread, stir gently to avoid mushiness but ensure even coating.
Let It Soak: Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 20 minutes; this step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture in your Banana Bread Pudding.
Check for Doneness: The pudding is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Enhance with Spice: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference. A hint of cardamom or more cinnamon can elevate the flavor!
With these tips, your banana bread pudding will surely shine in both taste and presentation!
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store your leftover Banana Bread Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, freezing for up to 2 months. This way, you can easily thaw and enjoy whenever the craving hits!
Reheating: To reheat, place thawed slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave a slice for 30-60 seconds on high.
Serve Fresh: If possible, reheat only the portion you plan to eat at that time, as repeated heating can affect the texture and flavor of your delicious dessert.
Banana Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What bananas should I use for Banana Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! When making Banana Bread Pudding, it’s best to use very ripe bananas. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots—this means they’re super sweet and will add fantastic flavor to your pudding. You want them to be soft for easy mashing!
How do I store leftovers of Banana Bread Pudding?
You can store your leftover Banana Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing it up to avoid any moisture that can make it soggy.
Can I freeze Banana Bread Pudding?
Yes, indeed! To freeze Banana Bread Pudding, allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This way, you can store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my Banana Bread Pudding is too soggy?
If your Banana Bread Pudding ends up too soggy, it could be due to over-soaking the bread. To troubleshoot, ensure that you only let it sit in the custard mixture for 20 minutes as recommended. If this has happened, you might briefly bake it longer under lower heat (around 325°F) to help it firm up.
Is Banana Bread Pudding safe for pets?
While the individual ingredients may seem safe, it’s best to avoid sharing Banana Bread Pudding with pets. The high sugar and cream content aren’t healthy for dogs or cats. Stick to feeding them fruits like plain bananas in small amounts!
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can adapt the Banana Bread Pudding for dietary needs by using non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk in place of regular milk and heavy cream. Also, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water per egg; let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens) for a vegan option! Enjoy making it your own!
Deliciously Easy Banana Bread Pudding to Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Place cubed French bread in a large bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
- Stir in mashed bananas and walnuts.
- Pour the mixture over the bread cubes and let sit for 20 minutes.
- Spray a 9"x13" baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread mixture evenly in the dish, topping with remaining walnuts. Bake for 1 hour.
- Let cool for a few minutes.
- For the sauce, combine brown sugar, butter, vanilla, and a splash of milk in a bowl and microwave until bubbly.
- Drizzle sauce over pudding, slice, and serve.