Banana bread pudding is a rich, comforting dessert that transforms overripe bananas and stale bread into a warm, custardy treat. With a hint of cinnamon, vanilla, and caramelized bananas, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. Serve it warm with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for the ultimate indulgence!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy & Budget-Friendly – Uses simple pantry staples and overripe bananas.
- Warm & Comforting – A soft, custardy texture with delicious banana flavor.
- Perfect for Leftover Bread – A great way to use up stale bread.
- Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins for extra texture.
- Great for Any Occasion – Serve as breakfast, dessert, or a special treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bread (French, brioche, or challah, cut into cubes)
- Overripe bananas (mashed)
- Eggs
- Milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- Heavy cream
- Brown sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg (optional)
- Butter (melted)
- Salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chocolate chips
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Raisins or dried fruit
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar
- Caramel sauce
- Whipped cream
Directions
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- Prepare the Bread – Place bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Custard – In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, mashed bananas, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and salt.
- Soak the Bread – Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, gently pressing down so the bread absorbs the liquid. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer to Baking Dish – Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake – Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Cool & Serve – Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce. Serve warm with whipped cream.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Banana Chocolate Bread Pudding – Stir in chocolate chips before baking.
- Nutty Banana Bread Pudding – Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Rum-Soaked Version – Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard for extra depth.
- Coconut Banana Bread Pudding – Use coconut milk and shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use almond or coconut milk and dairy-free butter.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Freezing – Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
Yes, but stale bread absorbs the custard better. If using fresh bread, lightly toast it first.
What’s the best bread for bread pudding?
Brioche, French bread, challah, or sourdough work best for a rich texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pudding, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes! Almond, oat, or coconut milk work well as dairy substitutes.
How do I make the pudding extra moist?
Use half-and-half instead of milk and let the bread soak longer before baking.
Can I make this without eggs?
Yes, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or a mashed banana for a vegan version.
Can I add caramelized bananas?
Absolutely! Sauté banana slices in butter and brown sugar, then mix them in before baking.
How do I prevent my bread pudding from being dry?
Make sure there’s enough custard to soak the bread, and don’t overbake.
Can I add a crunchy topping?
Yes! Sprinkle brown sugar and chopped nuts on top before baking.
What’s the best way to serve banana bread pudding?
Top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
Banana bread pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re using up overripe bananas or leftover bread, this creamy, spiced pudding is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a sweet, homemade treat with every bite!
PrintBanana Bread Pudding
This Banana Bread Pudding is rich, warm, and packed with caramelized banana flavor. Made with soft bread, cinnamon-spiced custard, and baked to perfection, it’s a cozy dessert that pairs beautifully with caramel sauce or whipped cream!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Southern
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
- 4 cups cubed bread (French bread, brioche, or challah)
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 banana, sliced
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Caramel sauce or powdered sugar (for serving)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.- Prepare the bread – Spread bread cubes evenly in the dish.
- Make the custard – In a bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, milk, heavy cream, sugars, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Assemble – Pour the custard over the bread, pressing down to soak. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Bake – Drizzle melted butter over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until golden and set.
- Garnish & serve – Top with banana slices and pecans. Serve warm with caramel sauce or powdered sugar.
Notes
Best Bread: Slightly stale bread works best for soaking up custard.- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk and coconut cream.
- Make It Boozy: Add 1 tablespoon rum or bourbon for extra depth.