Banana Bread Pudding

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, rich dessert that beckons you to take just one more bite. This Banana Bread Pudding combines the delightful flavor of banana bread with the creamy goodness of a traditional bread pudding, turning simple ingredients into a heartwarming treat. Whether you have leftover banana bread sitting on your counter or are looking for a new way to enjoy this classic dessert, this recipe will become a cozy favorite in your home.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups of banana bread, cubed
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of whole milk
  • 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup of chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to warm up while you prepare your delicious pudding.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until everything is beautifully blended and slightly frothy.
  3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and evenly spread the cubed banana bread across the bottom. If you’d like an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped nuts over the bread cubes.
  4. Pour the luscious egg mixture evenly over the banana bread, using a spatula to gently press down and help all the pieces soak up that creamy goodness.
  5. Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes, giving the bread a chance to absorb all that delightful liquid.
  6. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Once baked, allow the pudding to cool slightly before diving in for a taste. The aroma of warm banana bread will surely draw everyone to the kitchen!

Notes or Tips

This banana bread pudding is versatile! Feel free to adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar or adding your favorite spices. For an extra layer of flavor, consider including a splash of bourbon or rum for a more grown-up version. Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed warm or chilled, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Cooking Techniques

To achieve a creamy texture, make sure the egg mixture is well-whisked before pouring it over the bread. This ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully. Letting it sit before baking is key to allowing the bread to soak up the custard base, resulting in a pudding that’s neither dry nor overly soggy.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought banana bread? Absolutely! Store-bought banana bread works great in this recipe, making it a quick and easy dessert option.

How do I know when the pudding is done? The pudding is ready when the top is golden brown, and a knife or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The center may be slightly wobbly but will firm up as it cools.

Conclusion

This Banana Bread Pudding is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of banana bread in a new and enjoyable form. With its creamy texture and hints of cinnamon and vanilla, it’s the perfect dessert for family gatherings or a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! You’ll be rewarded with rich, delicious comfort food that will warm your heart and home.

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