Decadent Banana Bread Pudding with Caramel Drizzle

Jump to Recipe

Banana Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that has woven its way into the hearts of many. This warm, comforting treat combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas with the soft, custardy texture of bread pudding. It’s a dessert that evokes memories of family gatherings, and each bite transports you to a place of nostalgia. Let’s dive into this decadent recipe that promises to deliver happiness with every serving!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Pudding

This Banana Bread Pudding is not just any dessert; it offers a plethora of reasons to love it. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Second, the use of leftover banana bread is a fantastic way to reduce waste, making it an eco-friendly choice. Additionally, this dish can be customized with various toppings like chocolate chips or nuts, allowing you to create your own unique twist. Lastly, the combination of flavors, especially the caramel drizzle, takes this dessert to another level, ensuring that your taste buds are treated to an unforgettable experience. It’s a classic American banana bread dessert that never goes out of style!

Ingredients for Banana Bread Pudding

Gather these items:

16 oz French bread (Cut into 1-2″ cubes)
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1.5 cup milk
14 oz sweetened condensed milk
1 cup brown sugar
1 Tbs vanilla
0.5 tsp cinnamon
0.25 tsp nutmeg
0.25 tsp allspice
0.5 tsp salt
4 medium ripe bananas (Mashed)
1.25 cup chopped walnuts (Can substitute if desired)
0.5 cup brown sugar
3 Tbs butter
0.5 tsp vanilla
splash milk

How to Make Banana Bread Pudding Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Step 2: Combine the cubed bread in a large bowl and set aside.
Step 3: Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt in another bowl until fully combined.
Step 4: Stir in the mashed bananas and 1 cup of chopped walnuts into the custard mixture until well incorporated.
Step 5: Pour the mixture over the bread cubes and gently stir to coat them. Let sit for about 20 minutes.
Step 6: Spray a 9″x13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 7: Spread the soaked bread mixture into the baking dish, sprinkle with remaining walnuts, and bake for about 1 hour.
Step 8: Cool slightly after removing from the oven.
Step 9: Make the caramel sauce by mixing brown sugar, butter, vanilla, and a splash of milk in a bowl; heat until bubbling.
Step 10: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the warm bread pudding, slice it up, and serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Banana Bread Pudding

Keep these in mind:

Use day-old bread for the best texture.
Allow the pudding to rest before serving to enhance flavors.
Experiment with different nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor.
This recipe can be made vegetarian as it relies on simple ingredients.

Best Ways to Serve Banana Bread Pudding

When it comes to serving this delightful dish, there are several options to consider. You can serve it warm topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures. Alternatively, drizzle some additional caramel sauce over the top for a richer experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider pairing it with a scoop of banana pudding ice cream for a double banana delight!

How to Store and Reheat Banana Bread Pudding

To store any leftovers, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual servings in the microwave or pop the whole dish back into the oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Bread Pudding

What is banana bread pudding?

Banana bread pudding is a dessert made by combining stale bread with a custard mixture, often featuring ripe bananas. It’s baked until golden and can be served warm with sauces.

Can I make banana bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the banana bread pudding recipe ahead of time. Assemble it and keep it in the fridge overnight before baking. Just adjust the baking time as needed.

How do I avoid common mistakes with banana bread pudding?

To avoid issues, ensure your bread is stale for optimal absorption of the custard. Don’t skip letting it soak, and check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. It should come out clean.

Variations of Banana Bread Pudding You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations: try adding chocolate chips or a splash of rum sauce for a boozy twist. You can also make an easy banana pudding cake by layering the ingredients differently. For a healthier option, substitute some ingredients with low-fat alternatives and add fresh fruits on top as garnish.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Banana Split Cake or Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins. If you’re interested in other ways to use bananas, consider making Heavenly Moist Banana Bread as well!