why make this recipe
Creamy Banana Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of ripe bananas and soft bread soaked in a rich custard. This recipe is perfect for those who want to transform leftover bread and overripe bananas into something delicious. The creamy texture and sweet aroma make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert to enjoy at home or something special to share with friends and family, this banana bread pudding won’t disappoint.
Another great reason to make this dish is its versatility. It can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature, making it a flexible dessert option. Not to mention, it is super easy to prepare, meaning you can whip it up for any occasion without spending hours in the kitchen.
how to make Creamy Banana Bread Pudding
Ingredients
- 5 ripe bananas
- 4 cups of bread cubes (preferably stale or day-old)
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 3/4 cup of sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Directions
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step that ensures your bread pudding bakes evenly.
Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, take those ripe bananas and mash them with a fork or potato masher. You want a smooth consistency with some small chunks for texture.
Add Bread Cubes: After mashing the bananas, add in the bread cubes. Use stale or day-old bread for the best results, as it absorbs the custard mixture very well. Stir gently to coat the bread with the mashed bananas.
Make the Custard Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined, and you have a smooth mixture.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the custard mixture over the bread and banana mixture. Carefully mix everything together, ensuring that all the bread is soaked in the custard.
Rest: Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the bread to soak up the liquid properly, resulting in a creamier pudding.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, transfer your mixture to the dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You will know it’s done when the pudding is set in the center and has a lovely golden color on top.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before serving. This lets the flavors settle and makes it easier to cut into pieces.
how to serve Creamy Banana Bread Pudding
Creamy Banana Bread Pudding can be served in various ways to increase its deliciousness. Here are a few ideas:
- Warm: Serve it warm straight out of the oven for a cozy feel. A dollop of whipped cream on top can make it even more inviting.
- Cold: Chill it in the fridge and serve cold for a refreshing dessert, especially nice in the warmer months.
- With Sauces: Consider drizzling some caramel sauce or chocolate sauce over the top. These toppings add a delicious contrast and enhance the flavors.
- Garnish: Sliced bananas or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top right before serving can elevate the presentation and flavor.
how to store Creamy Banana Bread Pudding
Storing your Creamy Banana Bread Pudding is simple. If you have any leftovers, just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- In the Refrigerator: You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it is completely cool before covering it to avoid sogginess.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can warm them up in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze it:
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions of the pudding in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store them in an airtight freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
- Thawing: To eat frozen pudding, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight, and then reheat as desired.
tips to make Creamy Banana Bread Pudding
- Use Stale Bread: Stale bread is key as it absorbs the custard better, giving you a moist and flavorful pudding. If you don’t have stale bread, toast fresh bread in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out.
- Ripeness of Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your pudding will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor.
- Mix-ins: Feel free to throw in some chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to give your pudding an extra texture and taste.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the pudding is done. Insert it in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready. If it comes out wet, give it a few more minutes.
variation
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to change it up:
- Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a richer dessert.
- Nutty Flavor: Add a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the mixture for a crunchy texture.
- Spiced Banana Bread Pudding: Experiment with other spices like ginger or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of bread?
Yes! You can use brioche, challah, or even whole wheat bread. Just ensure it is sturdy enough to hold the custard.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can keep it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and cream and replacing eggs with mashed bananas or a commercial egg substitute.
3. How do I know when it’s done?
The pudding should be set in the center and golden on top. You can also insert a toothpick in the middle; if it comes out clean, it’s done.
Enjoy making this creamy and delicious Banana Bread Pudding that is sure to become a family favorite!
Print
Creamy Banana Bread Pudding
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert combining ripe bananas and soft bread soaked in a rich custard, perfect for using leftover bread and overripe bananas.
Ingredients
- 5 ripe bananas
- 4 cups of stale or day-old bread cubes
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 3/4 cup of sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth with some small chunks.
- Add bread cubes to the mashed bananas and stir gently to coat.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread and banana mixture and mix gently to soak the bread.
- Let the mixture rest for about 10 minutes.
- Grease a baking dish and transfer the mixture into it, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until set in the center and golden on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serve warm, cold, or at room temperature with toppings like whipped cream, caramel, or chocolate sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: banana bread pudding, dessert, creamy dessert, comfort food, easy dessert