Banana Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the sweet, rich flavors of banana bread with the custard-like texture of bread pudding. This indulgent treat is the perfect way to use up ripe bananas and leftover bread while satisfying your sweet tooth with every bite.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ripe bananas (mashed)bread (preferably day-old, cubed)eggswhole milkheavy creambrown sugarvanilla extractground cinnamonground nutmegbutter (melted)saltchopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Add the mashed bananas to the mixture and stir until smooth.
Fold in the cubed bread, making sure all pieces are soaked in the custard mixture. Let the bread soak for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If using, stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Drizzle melted butter over the top of the pudding and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 35-40 minutesTotal time: 50-55 minutes
Variations
Use chocolate chips or raisins for a fruity twist.
Swap the bananas for other fruits like apples or berries.
Top with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for extra flavor.
For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and coconut cream instead of regular milk and cream.
Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard for a rich, adult version.
storage/reheating
Store Banana Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it the next day.
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Day-old bread absorbs the custard better, but fresh bread works in a pinch if it’s lightly toasted.
What kind of bread works best?
Use a soft bread like challah, brioche, or a hearty white bread. Avoid overly dense breads.
Can I freeze this bread pudding?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Can I make this without bananas?
Yes, you can substitute the bananas with other fruits or just make a plain bread pudding.
Can I add more sugar?
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar, but be careful not to overpower the flavors.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free unless you use gluten-free bread.
Conclusion
Banana Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the best parts of banana bread and bread pudding into one irresistible treat. Its warm, custardy texture and sweet banana flavor make it a perfect comfort food dessert. Whether you enjoy it on its own or topped with a scoop of ice cream, this pudding is sure to become a favorite!
Print
Banana Bread Pudding
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting dessert that combines the richness of banana bread with the custard-like texture of bread pudding. This Banana Bread Pudding is the perfect way to use up overripe bananas and turn them into a decadent treat.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cubed day-old banana bread (about 1 loaf)
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Place the cubed banana bread in the prepared baking dish and scatter the sliced bananas on top.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the banana bread and bananas, pressing the bread down gently to help it absorb the liquid.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread pudding.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- For added texture, you can sprinkle chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) on top before baking.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- If you prefer a richer custard, you can replace part of the milk with more heavy cream.