Banana Bread Pudding Recipe

Bread: Day-old or stale bread is best for soaking up the custard mixture without becoming too mushy.

Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and a rich banana flavor to the pudding.

Milk: Provides the creamy base for the custard mixture.

Eggs: Help to set the custard and give the pudding structure.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the pudding.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.

Ground cinnamon: Adds a touch of warmth and spice.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

When preparing the bread for this banana bread pudding, make sure to use day-old or stale bread as it absorbs the custard mixture better. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out by cutting it into cubes and baking it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until it's slightly crispy. This will help the bread soak up the milk and egg mixture more effectively, resulting in a richer and more cohesive pudding.

• day-old or stale bread - Substitute with brioche or challah: These breads are rich and slightly sweet, which can enhance the flavor of the pudding.

• ripe bananas - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce provides a similar moisture content and natural sweetness.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that maintains the creamy texture.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different mineral content and flavor.

• To store your banana bread pudding, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• For freezing, first ensure the banana bread pudding is completely cooled. Cut it into individual portions for easier reheating later. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread pudding, remove the desired portions from the freezer. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed banana bread pudding in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For an extra touch, consider drizzling some caramel sauce or vanilla custard over the reheated banana bread pudding before serving. This will enhance the flavors and add a delightful finishing touch to your dessert.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover banana bread pudding in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you want a slightly crispy top.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the banana bread pudding on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it heats evenly.
  4. Let it sit for a minute before serving to allow the heat to distribute.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet.
  3. Place slices of the banana bread pudding in the skillet.
  4. Cover with a lid and heat for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Steam Method:

  1. Set up a steamer or a double boiler.
  2. Place the banana bread pudding in a heatproof dish that fits inside the steamer.
  3. Cover and steam for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
  4. This method keeps the pudding moist and soft.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
  2. Place the banana bread pudding in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
  4. This method gives a nice crispy top while keeping the inside moist.

• Oven: Used to bake the bread pudding at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine and whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.

• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly mixing the wet ingredients to ensure a smooth consistency.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the milk and sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt precisely.

• Fork: Useful for mashing the ripe bananas until smooth.

• Spatula: Handy for folding the mashed bananas and cubed bread into the wet mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated.

• Baking dish: A greased dish where the bread pudding mixture will be poured and baked.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the bread pudding is done by inserting it into the center and seeing if it comes out clean.

• Cooling rack: Allows the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving, ensuring it sets properly.

Use pre-cubed bread: Save time by using pre-cubed bread from the store instead of cubing it yourself.

Microwave bananas: Soften bananas quickly by microwaving them for 30 seconds before mashing.

Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt in advance to streamline the mixing process.

Use a blender: Blend the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract together for a smoother mixture.

Quick cool down: Place the baking dish on a wire rack to cool faster before serving.