Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm dessert fresh out of the oven, and this banana bread pudding is no exception. Packed with the familiar flavors of sweet bananas and the delightful texture of day-old banana bread, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a sumptuous treat. Whether you’re using leftovers or just want to indulge, this recipe will bring smiles and contentment to your table. Serve it warm and topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients
- 4 cups day-old banana bread, cubed
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
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 step is crucial as it ensures a perfectly baked, golden brown pudding.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Gently fold the cubed banana bread into the custard mixture, making sure each piece is lovingly soaked.
- If you’re feeling a little adventurous, stir in the chopped walnuts or pecans and chocolate chips for that added crunch and decadence.
- Pour the delicious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the custard is set in the middle.
- Once out of the oven, allow the pudding to cool slightly. Serve it warm, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use banana bread that is a couple of days old—it will soak up the custard beautifully. Feel free to experiment by adding other mix-ins like dried fruit or a splash of bourbon for an adult twist. This pudding can be made ahead of time; simply store it in the fridge before baking and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Cooking Techniques
When mixing the custard, ensure that the ingredients are well combined but avoid over-mixing, which can create a dense pudding. The gentle folding of the banana bread is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture. Monitoring the baking time is essential; ovens can vary, so keep an eye out for that golden brown top and set custard as an indicator that it’s ready.
FAQ
Can I use fresh banana bread? Yes, but be aware that fresh bread may not absorb the custard as well as stale bread, so the texture might differ slightly.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze banana bread pudding? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake as directed when you’re ready to enjoy!
Conclusion
This banana bread pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that turns everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting dessert, it’s bound to be a hit. So gather your loved ones, enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen, and savor every luxurious bite!