Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked banana bread pudding wafting through your home. This dish is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. Imagine rich, creamy custard enveloping cubes of soft, sweet banana bread, with notes of vanilla and a sprinkle of cinnamon bringing everything together. Perfect for a cozy night in or a delightful gathering, this banana bread pudding is sure to become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of day-old banana bread, cubed
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (optional)
- Caramel sauce for drizzling (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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your kitchen for the deliciousness to come!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Gradually add this creamy mixture to the egg mixture while whisking continuously until everything is beautifully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the cubed banana bread, ensuring each piece is generously coated in the luscious custard. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes so that the bread can soak up all that flavor.
- If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips for an extra layer of texture and taste.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and introduce the banana bread mixture into it, smoothing the top to spread it evenly.
- Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top has taken on a lovely golden brown hue.
- Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before serving. For that extra special touch, drizzle with caramel sauce just before enjoying!
Notes or Tips
Don’t hesitate to personalize your banana bread pudding! Consider adding dried fruits or swirls of nut butter for a unique twist. If you have leftover banana bread, this is the perfect recipe to transform it into something sensational!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the technique of soaking. By allowing the bread to absorb the custard mixture, you’ll achieve a wonderfully moist pudding. Baking at the right temperature is crucial, so keep an eye on your pudding as it caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
FAQ
Can I use fresh banana bread? While day-old banana bread works best for soaking, fresh bread can certainly be used! Just let it sit out for a few hours to dry out slightly.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for best results.
Conclusion
With its golden crust and creamy, comforting center, this banana bread pudding is everything a dessert should be. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying solo on a quiet evening. So go ahead, turn your leftover banana bread into this heavenly treat, and indulge in a slice of warmth that feels just like home!