Banana bread pudding is a cozy, comforting dessert that combines the best of two beloved treats: banana bread and bread pudding. It’s a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas and day-old bread, transforming them into a warm, custardy delight perfect for any occasion. If you’re wondering how to make banana bread pudding, this article will guide you through a simple, foolproof recipe with tips to ensure your pudding turns out perfectly every time.
What Is Banana Bread Pudding?
Banana bread pudding is a baked dessert made by soaking cubes of bread in a banana-infused custard mixture, then baking it until golden and set. The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg give it a warm, inviting flavor. Often served with a rich sauce or ice cream, it’s a dessert that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 4 cups cubed day-old French or sourdough bread (about 1-inch pieces)
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 3 large eggs (room temperature)
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup sliced firm bananas (about 1/4-inch pieces)
For the Sauce (Optional but recommended)
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 3/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart casserole dish with butter. Place the bread cubes in the dish, then pour the melted butter over them and toss gently to coat. This step ensures the bread absorbs the custard nicely and adds richness to the pudding.
2. Make the Custard Base
In a medium bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Whisk in the milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Stir in the sliced bananas. The bananas add natural sweetness and a lovely texture to the custard.
3. Combine and Bake
Pour the banana custard mixture over the bread cubes in the casserole dish. Stir gently to make sure all the bread is coated. Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
4. Prepare the Warm Sugar Sauce
While the pudding bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar and cornstarch, then add this mixture to the melted butter. Stir in the milk and corn syrup, and cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce comes to a full boil. Boil for one minute until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Serve this warm sauce drizzled over the banana bread pudding for an extra layer of decadence.
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Pudding
– Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread soaks up the custard better without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, dry it in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes before using.
– Ripe Bananas Are Key: The sweeter and more ripe your bananas, the more flavorful your pudding will be.
– Don’t Skip the Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth, making your pudding taste like a cozy hug.
– Let the Bread Soak: After pouring the custard over the bread, let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.
– Serve Warm: Bread pudding tastes best fresh out of the oven with warm sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variations to Try
– Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding: Add chocolate chips or swirl in some chocolate sauce for a rich twist.
– Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake: Incorporate a sticky caramel topping for extra indulgence.
– Banana Bread Pudding with Bourbon Pecan Sauce: For an adult version, serve with a bourbon pecan sauce to add a nutty, boozy flavor.
– Instant Pudding Mix Shortcut: Some recipes use instant vanilla pudding mix to simplify the custard preparation, making the process quicker without sacrificing creaminess.
Banana bread pudding is a versatile dessert that’s easy to customize based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Whether you enjoy it as a warm, comforting treat or a chilled dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Enjoy your baking adventure and the delicious results!
Banana bread pudding is a simple yet delightful way to turn everyday ingredients into a memorable dessert. Give it a try, and you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved classic.