Banana Bread Pudding Recipe

Heavenly Banana Bread Pudding Recipe: Sweet Comfort in Every Bite

Warm, comforting desserts have a magical way of bringing people together, especially when crafted with a classic banana bread pudding recipe that sparks joy at first bite.

The rich aroma of cinnamon and ripe bananas wafts through the kitchen, promising something extraordinary.

Each spoonful tells a story of comfort and nostalgia, blending soft bread with creamy custard and sweet fruit.

Ripe bananas meld perfectly with soft, custardy layers, creating a dessert that feels like a warm embrace.

Decadent yet simple, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special.

You’ll find yourself returning to this delightful treat time and again, savoring every delicious moment.

Prepare to fall in love with a dessert that celebrates pure, simple happiness.

FAQs

  • What's the secret to getting the right texture in banana bread pudding?

The key is not overmixing when adding bread cubes. Gently fold them into the liquid mixture so they absorb the custard without breaking down completely, which helps maintain a soft, custardy texture.

  • Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various bread types like brioche, challah, or day-old French bread. Just ensure the bread is slightly stale, as it absorbs the liquid mixture better and creates a more consistent pudding texture.

  • How do I know when the banana bread pudding is perfectly baked?

Look for a golden brown top and a set center. When you gently shake the baking dish, the pudding should jiggle slightly but not be liquid.

Banana Bread Pudding That Warms The Soul

  • Conquer Quick Meals: Spin up these quesadillas in mere minutes, perfect for busy individuals craving a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner option.
  • Transform Leftovers Creatively: Easily customize the filling with whatever fresh or leftover ingredients you have in your refrigerator, making this recipe incredibly versatile and budget-friendly.
  • Boost Nutrition Delightfully: Pack in powerful nutrients from spinach and protein-rich feta cheese, creating a balanced meal that doesn't compromise on flavor or satisfaction.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, crispy texture and mild herb-infused taste, making it a crowd-pleasing option for family meals or casual gatherings.

Ingredients For Classic Banana Bread Pudding

Main Ingredients:
  • Bananas: Ripe and soft bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture to the pudding.
  • Bread Cubes: Day-old bread adds structure and absorbs the creamy mixture.
  • Dark Chocolate: Rich chocolate creates delightful pockets of indulgence throughout the dessert.
Liquid Components:
  • Eggs, Milk, Honey, Vanilla Extract: These ingredients create a smooth, custardy base that binds the pudding together.
Finishing Touches:
  • Coconut Oil, Banana Slices: Coconut oil helps prevent sticking, while additional banana slices provide extra flavor and visual appeal.

Baking Instructions For Moist Banana Bread Pudding

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F (175°C) to get ready for some delicious baking action.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Vessel

Grab your baking dish and give it a loving coat of coconut oil to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 3: Crush Those Bananas

Take your ripe bananas and transform them into a smooth, creamy mash using a fork or potato masher.

Step 4: Create the Flavor Fusion

Combine the banana mash with:
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Honey
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk everything together until the mixture looks silky and well-blended.

Step 5: Bread and Chocolate Dance

Gently fold in:
  • Bread cubes
  • Half of the chopped dark chocolate

Make sure each bread cube gets a delicious coating of the banana mixture.

Step 6: Fill the Baking Dish

Pour the entire mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches

Decorate the top with:
  • Fresh banana slices
  • Remaining dark chocolate sprinkled on top

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the pudding sets like a dream.

Step 9: Serve and Savor

Pull out your masterpiece, let it cool slightly, and dive into a warm, comforting slice of banana bread pudding heaven.

Tips For Perfect Banana Bread Pudding Texture

  • Use slightly stale bread for best texture, as it absorbs the custard mixture more effectively without becoming too mushy.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent over-browning.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for a warm, aromatic undertone that complements the banana's sweetness.
  • Swap milk with coconut milk or almond milk to create a lactose-free version while maintaining a creamy consistency.
  • Experiment with different chocolate types like milk or white chocolate for unique flavor profiles and visual appeal.

Flavor Variations To Try With Banana Bread Pudding

  • Gluten-Free Banana Bread Pudding: Replace regular bread with gluten-free bread or almond flour bread for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Chocolate Banana Pudding: Swap eggs with mashed banana or flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and coconut nectar instead of honey for a completely plant-based version.
  • Nutty Banana Bread Pudding: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to enhance texture and provide extra protein and crunch to the dessert.
  • Low-Sugar Alternative: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of honey, and choose sugar-free dark chocolate chips to reduce overall sugar content for diabetic-friendly option.

Pairing Suggestions For Banana Bread Pudding Enjoyment

  • Indulge in Creamy Caramel Cappuccino: A rich, smooth cappuccino cuts through the pudding's sweetness, complementing the dark chocolate's depth while refreshing your palate.
  • Pair with Toasted Pecan Crunch: Sprinkle roasted pecans alongside the pudding to add a delightful nutty crunch that enhances the bread's soft texture and banana's natural sweetness.
  • Drizzle with Salted Butterscotch Sauce: A luxurious butterscotch sauce with a hint of sea salt elevates the dessert's richness, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
  • Serve with Cinnamon Whipped Cream: A light, airy cinnamon-infused whipped cream adds a warm, spicy note that beautifully complements the banana and chocolate elements.

Proper Storage Advice For Banana Bread Pudding

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cover with plastic wrap or lid to maintain moisture and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
  • Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Banana bread pudding can be frozen for 2-3 months without losing quality.
  • Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming. Stop heating when the pudding is warm throughout.
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Banana Bread Pudding Recipe

Banana Bread Pudding Recipe


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4.8 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets indulgence in this heavenly Banana Bread Pudding, blending ripe bananas with custardy richness. Warm spices and caramelized edges promise a delightful dessert that wraps you in nostalgic sweetness, perfect for sharing with loved ones.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 bread loaf, cubed (preferably day-old)
  • 3 medium bananas, mashed
  • 1 medium banana, sliced
  • 3.5 ounces (100 grams) dark chocolate, chopped

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil (for greasing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F (175°C), ensuring optimal temperature for baking.
  2. Coat a baking dish thoroughly with coconut oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
  3. Crush ripe bananas in a spacious mixing bowl until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency.
  4. Incorporate eggs, milk, honey, and vanilla extract into the mashed bananas, whisking vigorously until the mixture becomes uniform and silky.
  5. Gently fold bread cubes and half of the dark chocolate pieces into the liquid base, ensuring each cube is evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a consistent texture.
  7. Arrange fresh banana slices across the surface and generously scatter remaining dark chocolate over the top.
  8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, monitoring until the pudding develops a golden-brown crust and sets completely.
  9. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving, ensuring the pudding maintains its warm, comforting essence.

Notes

  • Ripe bananas create the most flavorful and naturally sweet pudding, so choose overripe, spotty bananas for maximum taste and caramelization.
  • Gluten-free bread or almond flour bread can easily substitute regular bread for those with wheat sensitivities or celiac requirements.
  • Dark chocolate adds a luxurious depth, but for a lighter version, consider using cacao nibs or reducing the amount of chocolate to lower overall sugar content.
  • Enhance texture by letting bread cubes sit in the banana mixture for 10-15 minutes before baking, allowing them to absorb more flavor and become wonderfully soft.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 352 kcal
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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