There’s a certain warmth that fills my kitchen when I whip up a batch of Banana Bread Pudding. As I slice through the golden, caramelized top, the sweet, banana-infused bread reveals itself in fluffy layers, coaxing me back to cozy family gatherings. This dish isn’t just dessert; it’s a nostalgic hug, a celebration of overripe bananas begging to be reimagined rather than wasted.
After a hectic week filled with fast food and takeout, I found myself yearning for something homemade that could soothe my soul. Enter this delightful banana bread pudding—a magical creation that transforms simple ingredients like French bread and ripe bananas into an unforgettable treat. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but the rich flavors meld together beautifully, making it a fantastic crowd-pleaser or a comforting family dessert.
So, let’s dive into this sweet adventure, where you’ll discover how to turn leftovers into a luxurious indulgence that feels anything but ordinary! Grab those bananas, and let’s get cooking!
Why is Banana Bread Pudding a Perfect Dessert?
Comforting flavors: This pudding brings together the heartwarming taste of bananas and the wholesome richness of French bread, resulting in a dish that feels like a sweet embrace.
Quick prep time: With just 30 minutes of prep, you’ll have this delightful dessert in the oven before you know it, leaving you free to relax or entertain guests!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or inviting friends over, this sharing-size recipe to serve 12 ensures smiles all around.
Versatile options: Feel free to get creative by adding chocolate chips or replacing walnuts with pecans—they all bring unique flavors!
Irresistible caramel drizzle: The homemade caramel sauce takes this classic dessert to gourmet heights, finishing it off with a touch of decadence that’s hard to resist.
Banana Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding
• 16 oz loaf French bread – Cut into 1-2″ cubes to soak up all that sweet custard goodness.
• 4 eggs – Bind everything together and add richness to the pudding’s texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luscious and creamy custard that enhances flavor.
• 1 1/2 cup milk – Balances the richness while keeping the pudding moist.
• 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk – Adds a delightful sweetness and a luscious consistency.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Enhances the deep, caramel-like flavor in the pudding base.
• 1 Tbs vanilla – Elevates and rounds out all the flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon – Infuses a warm spice that complements the bananas perfectly.
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg – Adds a hint of warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• 1/4 tsp allspice – Gives a subtle aroma reminiscent of cozy fall days.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• 4 ripe bananas – Mashed for a naturally sweet and fruity essence.
• 1 1/4 cup chopped walnuts – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor; feel free to substitute if desired.
For the Caramel Sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – This is the star of your sauce, providing a rich sweetness.
• 3 Tbs butter – Promises a smooth and creamy caramel texture.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla – A touch of flavor to round out the caramel’s sweetness.
• Splash of milk – Helps to bring everything together and adds creaminess.
Each of these ingredients is a vital piece of crafting your own deliciously indulgent Banana Bread Pudding that everyone will adore!
How to Make Banana Bread Pudding
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your Banana Bread Pudding cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden top.
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Combine the cubed bread in a large bowl and set aside. This will be the base for soaking in all those delightful flavors.
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Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt in another large bowl until fully combined. The mixture should be creamy and smooth for a delicious custard.
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Stir in the mashed bananas and 1 cup of chopped walnuts to the custard mixture until well incorporated. The bananas add sweetness and moisture, while walnuts provide a nice crunch.
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Pour the mixture over the bread cubes and gently stir to coat them; let sit for about 20 minutes. This soaking time allows the bread to absorb the custard, creating a luscious texture.
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Spray a 9″x13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This simple step will make serving much easier later!
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Spread the soaked bread mixture into the baking dish, sprinkle with the remaining walnuts, and bake in the oven for about 1 hour, or until the center is set and the top is slightly toasted. You’ll know it’s done when it’s no longer jiggly.
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Cool slightly after removing from the oven. Letting it rest for a bit allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier.
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Make the caramel sauce by mixing brown sugar, butter, vanilla, and a splash of milk in a microwave-safe bowl; heat until it starts bubbling, stirring every 30 seconds, or on the stovetop. This sauce will take your dessert to the next level!
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Drizzle the caramel sauce over the warm bread pudding, slice it up, and serve. Watch the smiles appear as the rich flavors come together!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Banana Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to mix and match flavor combinations and swaps to craft your perfect dessert!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free for a delightful twist.
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Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with pumpkin seeds or leave them out entirely for a creamy, nut-free delight. You’ll enjoy the same comforting pudding without any nuts!
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Chocolate Lovers: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey version that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The combination of chocolate and bananas is simply divine!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more cinnamon for a hint of heat and a warming layer of flavor. It’s a surprising twist that adds depth.
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Berry Burst: Mix in a cup of fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity surprise. Their tartness pairs wonderfully with the banana sweetness.
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Maple Caramel: Swap brown sugar in the caramel sauce for maple syrup for an extra depth of flavor that’ll make your heart sing. The rich maple notes elevate the entire dish!
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Banana-Free: Use applesauce or puréed pears in place of bananas for a different fruity approach, still keeping that moist texture intact. Each bite will be a fresh experience!
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Vegan-Friendly: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and cream for a delicious vegan adaptation that everyone can enjoy. The flavors will still shine through beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Pudding delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow steps 1 through 5, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best results, allow it to soak overnight for enhanced flavor and texture. On the day you plan to serve, pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and bake as directed. If you prefer to make the caramel sauce ahead, prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge, reheating it gently before drizzling over the warm pudding. This handy approach ensures you indulge in delicious homemade goodness without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store leftover Banana Bread Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful, ready for quick indulgence!
Freezer: If you’ve made a big batch, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring it stays deliciously moist.
Serving Tip: Drizzle fresh caramel sauce over any reheated portions for a delightful touch that revives its gourmet charm!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Pudding?
Looking to create a beautiful meal around this luscious dessert? Let’s explore some delightful pairings that will make your dining experience unforgettable.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a pop of color and tangy freshness that beautifully contrasts the richness of the pudding.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the decadent caramel and banana flavors while making every bite a dream.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture of vanilla ice cream melts delightfully over warm banana bread pudding, creating a perfect creamy contrast and heightened indulgence.
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Coffee: A rich cup of freshly brewed coffee brings out the warm spices and sweetness, completing the comforting experience of enjoying your dessert.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle additional homemade caramel sauce over the top for an extra touch of sweetness—it’s an indulgent must that elevates every slice.
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Spiced Nuts: Offering a crunchy element, spiced nuts like cinnamon-roasted pecans balance the soft texture of the pudding while enhancing the dish’s nutty flavors.
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Chocolate Sauce: For those chocolate lovers, a light drizzle of chocolate sauce can transform your banana bread pudding into an even sweeter treat, adding complexity.
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Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, provides a refreshing end to the meal while perfectly calming any lingering sweetness.
These delightful accompaniments will ensure your banana bread pudding is the star of the show, bringing warmth and joy to your table!
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Pudding
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Use Stale Bread: Choose day-old French bread for the best results. Fresh bread can become mushy instead of absorbing the custard beautifully.
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Don’t Rush the Soak: Allowing the bread to sit in the custard mixture for 20 minutes lets it soak up all that sweet goodness, ensuring a moist and flavorful pudding.
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Check for Doneness: Instead of relying solely on baking time, make sure the center is no longer jiggly. A slight firming indicates that your Banana Bread Pudding is perfectly cooked.
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Customize the Nuts: While walnuts are wonderful for crunch, feel free to swap them for pecans or almonds if you prefer a different texture or flavor.
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Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance—just store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it right before serving for a warm, fresh dessert experience!
Banana Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bananas for this recipe?
Look for bananas that are very ripe, ideally with plenty of brown spots on the peel. These bananas are sweeter and softer, perfect for mashing into the pudding. If they’re too firm or green, they won’t provide the rich flavor you want!
What’s the best way to store leftover Banana Bread Pudding?
Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain moisture. You can easily reheat it later for a comforting treat!
Can I freeze Banana Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can keep it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
What should I do if my pudding seems too dry?
If your Banana Bread Pudding turns out dry, you can try drizzling a bit of milk over it before serving, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra moisture. For next time, ensure the bread soaks long enough in the custard mixture for a moist result.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
This recipe contains eggs, dairy, and nuts (walnuts). If you or your guests have allergies, you can use dairy-free milk options and egg substitutes such as flax eggs. For nut allergies, you might consider leaving out the walnuts or replacing them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a similar crunch without the allergens.
How can I ensure my Banana Bread Pudding bakes evenly?
To promote even baking, be sure to spread the soaked bread mixture evenly in the baking dish. Also, let it sit for a while before baking to allow the liquid to soak in fully. Keep an eye on it during the final moments of baking—look for a firm center and a lightly toasted top for the best results!
Decadent Banana Bread Pudding with Caramel Drizzle Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Combine the cubed bread in a large bowl and set aside.
- Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt in another bowl until fully combined.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and 1 cup of chopped walnuts to the custard mixture until well incorporated.
- Pour the mixture over the bread cubes and gently stir to coat them; let sit for about 20 minutes.
- Spray a 9"x13" baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread the soaked bread mixture into the baking dish, sprinkle with remaining walnuts, and bake for about 1 hour.
- Cool slightly after removing from the oven.
- Make the caramel sauce by mixing brown sugar, butter, vanilla, and a splash of milk in a bowl; heat until bubbling.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the warm bread pudding, slice it up, and serve.