There’s something so comforting about a warm dessert that envelops you like a hug from an old friend. As I took my first bite of this delicious banana bread pudding, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, reminiscent of cozy family gatherings where dessert was the grand finale. This recipe is a perfect excuse to use up those ripe bananas lying lonely on your counter and transform them into a delectable treat that everyone will love.
Picture it: a creamy custard cradling generous chunks of soft, buttery challah, all kissed with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of brown sugar. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that brings joy to any dining table, especially during those laid-back weekend mornings or as a surprise breakfast for guests.
With minimal prep time and a golden crust that beckons from the oven, this dish is incredibly versatile too—serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or let it cool for a delightful brunch centerpiece. Join me in creating a dessert that not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also fills the room with irresistible aromas!
Why is Delicious Banana Bread Pudding a Must-Try?
Comforting, nostalgic flavors: Each bite transports you back to cherished moments, evoking warmth and happiness.
Easy to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to delight your guests!
Versatile innovation: Enjoy it warm, topped with ice cream, or at room temperature as a brunch favorite.
Crowd-pleasing goodness: Perfect for family gatherings or simply treating yourself, this dish has wide appeal!
Irresistible aroma: As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with sweet, inviting scents that will draw everyone in.
Dive into this delightful dessert, and explore the joys of homemade sweetness with this delicious banana bread pudding!
Delicious Banana Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Base
• 4 ripe bananas – ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture to the dish.
• 3 large eggs – eggs help bind the mixture, creating a creamy custard.
• 2 cups whole milk – use whole milk for richness or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.
For the Bread
• 4 cups day-old challah or brioche bread – using day-old bread gives the best texture, soaking up the custard beautifully.
For the Flavor
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances the overall sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – infuses the dish with warm, comforting spice notes.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – provides a rich, caramel flavor that perfectly complements the bananas.
This delicious banana bread pudding is a delightful way to turn simple ingredients into a memorable dessert!
How to Make Delicious Banana Bread Pudding
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. This ensures your pudding will come out clean and prevents sticking.
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Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until they are smooth but still slightly chunky. Their natural sweetness will shine through, enhancing the flavor of the pudding.
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Whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in another bowl. Mix until the mixture is creamy and fully combined for a rich base.
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Fold the mashed bananas gently into the custard mixture. Then, add the cubed bread, ensuring all pieces are well-coated, and let it soak for about 15 minutes. This allows the bread to absorb the delicious flavors.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes. Watch for a golden brown top that indicates it’s ready and cooked through.
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Cool slightly before serving; this can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Each bite will be comforting and satisfying!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Delicious Banana Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your delicious banana bread pudding fresh while allowing the flavors to meld together further.
Freezer: Allow to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months for a delightful treat later.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This will restore its warm, comforting texture.
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, allow to cool for about 30 minutes after baking, so it firms up slightly and is easier to cut and serve.
Expert Tips for Delicious Banana Bread Pudding
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Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your pudding will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best taste.
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Day-Old Bread: Always opt for day-old challah or brioche. Fresh bread can become too soggy; aging allows it to soak up the custard beautifully without falling apart.
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Don’t Rush Soaking: Allow the cubed bread to soak in the custard mixture for a full 15 minutes. This is key to achieving that luscious, creamy consistency in your delicious banana bread pudding.
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Check the Bake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Your pudding should be golden brown on top and slightly set in the center—over-baking can dry it out.
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Serving Suggestions: For an extra treat, try serving warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. It elevates the dish and adds a delightful contrast!
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Leftover Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the oven for a quick dessert fix.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious banana bread pudding is perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights or special occasions! You can prepare the custard mixture (eggs, milk, vanilla, brown sugar, and cinnamon) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. The cubed bread can also be mixed in at this stage, allowing it to soak in the custard overnight for maximum flavor absorption. To maintain quality, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, which helps prevent dryness. When you’re ready to bake, just pour everything into the greased dish and cook as directed, ensuring this comforting dessert is just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Delicious Banana Bread Pudding?
As you indulge in the warmth of this sweet treat, consider pairing it with delightful sides for a truly memorable meal.
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Fresh Berries: Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the creamy pudding, offering a refreshing burst of flavor. A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds both color and a juicy pop to your plate.
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Cinnamon Whipped Cream: This tasty accompaniment enhances the pudding’s warmth while adding a cloud-like texture. With just a hint of sweetness, it complements the dessert perfectly.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel over each serving elevates the experience, creating a decadent dessert. The rich sweetness pairs harmoniously with the flavors of the banana pudding.
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Toasted Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans give a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that balances the pudding’s softness. They’re an essential ingredient for those who love both texture and taste contrast in dessert.
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Chocolate Chips: If you’re craving a little indulgence, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips on top for an added layer of sweetness. The chocolate melts slightly, blending beautifully with the bread pudding.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of brewed coffee or a fragrant pot of tea makes the perfect drink to sip alongside this dessert. The warmth and richness in these beverages accentuate the comforting flavors of delicious banana bread pudding.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a classic twist, serve with a scoop of good-quality vanilla ice cream, allowing it to melt slightly over the warm pudding for a decadent finish. This combination is always a hit!
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Frozen Yogurt: For a lighter option, consider pairing with creamy frozen yogurt, which can add a tangy note and a refreshing feel against the sweet indulgence.
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Ambrosial Fruit Salad: A simple mix of your favorite fruits brings a lightness to the meal, providing a refreshing complement to the richness of banana bread pudding. Refreshing and vibrant!
Delicious Banana Bread Pudding Variations
Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own and tantalize your taste buds with exciting twists.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a creamy, lactose-free alternative.
- Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft pudding texture.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips for a sumptuous and indulgent surprise in every bite. After all, who can resist chocolate?
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in a cup of fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a burst of juicy flavor that pairs perfectly with bananas.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon to introduce a warm spice that adds depth to the pudding.
- Maple Sweetness: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a delightful change that complements the natural sweetness of the bananas.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top your finished pudding with a caramel sauce for an irresistible sweetness that will have everyone begging for seconds.
- Savory Spin: Incorporate some cooked bacon bits or a sprinkle of sea salt to create a sweet-savory combination that’s surprisingly addictive!
Explore these variations, and let your creativity shine through this delicious banana bread pudding!
Delicious Banana Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bananas for my pudding?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that are very ripe, with plenty of brown spots. These will be sweeter and give your pudding a rich, caramel flavor. If you can’t find overripe bananas, you can ripen them quickly by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of banana bread pudding?
You’ll want to store your delicious banana bread pudding in the refrigerator, covered tightly. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cool before wrapping it, to avoid condensation that can make it soggy.
Can I freeze banana bread pudding?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the pudding to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
What if my banana bread pudding turns out too dry?
Very! If you find your pudding is dry, it may be due to over-baking or not soaking the bread long enough. Make sure to soak the cubed bread in the custard mixture for the full 15 minutes before baking. Also, check it at the 45-minute mark to ensure it’s not overcooked. If it does dry out, serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream can help add moisture back in!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily make this recipe dairy-free by using almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk. For allergies, ensure that the bread you use doesn’t contain any ingredients you’re avoiding. Always check labels for any potential allergens, especially if serving to guests.
How can I enhance the flavor of my banana bread pudding?
You can boost the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a unique twist. Another lovely option is to incorporate a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the bread mixture for added texture and richness. Each variation brings a new delightful experience to your delicious banana bread pudding!
Irresistibly Delicious Banana Bread Pudding You'll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth but slightly chunky.
- Whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in another bowl until creamy.
- Fold the mashed bananas into the custard mixture, then add cubed bread and let soak for 15 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- Cool slightly before serving; enjoy warm or at room temperature.
