Banana Bread Pudding Recipe: A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
Are you looking for a delicious and easy dessert recipe that will impress your friends and family? Look no further than this banana bread pudding recipe! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover banana bread, and it's so easy to make, even beginner bakers can master it. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, brunches, or simply a cozy night in. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust sweetness and spice levels to your preference. Here's what you'll need to get started:
- 1 loaf (approximately 1 pound) of banana bread, preferably slightly stale – this helps prevent a soggy pudding! You can use homemade or store-bought.
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- 1 (12-ounce) can of evaporated milk, providing richness and creaminess.
- 1 cup of whole milk, adding to the creamy texture.
- 1 cup of granulated sugar, or to taste – adjust based on your banana bread's sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, enhancing the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a classic pairing with banana.
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, adding warmth and depth.
- Optional: 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans, for added texture and crunch. Raisins or chocolate chips work wonderfully too!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create a delightful banana bread pudding:
1. Prepare the Banana Bread:
- Cut the banana bread into approximately 1-inch cubes. Don't worry about making them perfectly uniform!
2. Whisk the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gently fold the cubed banana bread into the wet ingredients, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. If using nuts or other additions, add them now.
4. Bake to Perfection:
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and lightly golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. It's delicious warm or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates it to the next level!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread Pudding:
- Stale bread is key: Slightly stale banana bread absorbs the custard better, preventing a soggy result.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking will dry out the pudding. Start checking for doneness around 45 minutes.
- Customize it: Feel free to experiment with different spices, extracts, or mix-ins to create your own unique version.
- Make it ahead: This pudding can be made a day ahead and reheated gently before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of bread? A: While banana bread is ideal, you can experiment with other quick breads, but adjust baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze banana bread pudding? A: Yes, once cooled completely, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This banana bread pudding recipe is a simple yet satisfying dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!
