Banana Bread Pudding Recipe: A Sweet and Comforting Delight
Banana Bread Pudding combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy, custard-like texture of a traditional bread pudding. It's the perfect way to use up leftover bread or bananas that have ripened just a bit too much. Whether you're preparing a dessert for a family gathering or simply indulging in a cozy treat, this recipe will deliver a heartwarming experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Economical: A great way to use overripe bananas and day-old bread.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the items are pantry staples.
- Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or a caramel drizzle for variety.
- Comfort Food: The warm, spiced flavors make it perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
- 4 cups of bread (preferably day-old), cubed
- 2 large overripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups of whole milk (or substitute with almond or oat milk)
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ¼ cup raisins
For the Sauce (Optional):
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
2. Make the Custard Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the mashed bananas, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble the Bread Pudding
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is soaked.
- Gently press the bread down with the back of a spoon to ensure it absorbs the liquid.
- If you add nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins, sprinkle them evenly over the top.
4. Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the pudding cool slightly before serving.
Optional Caramel Sauce
- Combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Drizzle the warm sauce over the bread pudding before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Festive: Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dash of cinnamon on top.
- Decadent: Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra treat.
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Pudding
- Choose the Right Bread: Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy. Brioche, challah, or French bread are excellent choices.
- Ripe Bananas Are Key: Overripe bananas enhance the sweetness and flavor of the dish.
- Customize Flavors: Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard mixture for a more sophisticated taste.
- To make It Dairy-Free, Substitute milk with almond, soy, or oat milk and use a plant-based butter alternative for the sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 30–40 seconds or place the entire dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
Banana Bread Pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or as a comforting treat on a cold evening, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Try this delightful dish today and let the creamy, cinnamon-kissed flavors transport you to dessert heaven!
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