Introduction
Nothing quite warms the heart like a deliciously comforting dessert, and this Banana Bread Pudding is the perfect way to transform your leftover banana bread into a delightful treat. With its rich and creamy texture, infused with sweet bananas and a hint of cinnamon, every bite is a nostalgic hug. Perfect for brunch or a cozy evening dessert, this recipe is a delightful way to embrace those ripe bananas and stale bread sitting in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this sweet adventure!
Ingredients
- 4 cups of stale banana bread, cubed
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The warmth of the oven will create a lovely ambiance as your pudding bakes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined and frothy.
- Grease a baking dish and gently place the cubed banana bread inside. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle the chopped walnuts and raisins evenly over the top for added texture and flavor.
- Pour the creamy milk mixture over the banana bread, ensuring that every piece is generously soaked. Watch as the liquid seeps into the bread, creating a delightful base for your pudding.
- Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up that luscious liquid and infuse each bite with flavor.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the pudding has set nicely.
- Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. The aroma will be irresistible, enticing everyone to gather around for a taste!
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon. If you prefer a creamier pudding, you can substitute some of the milk for additional heavy cream. And don’t hesitate to experiment with other add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit to personalize your dessert!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is a wonderful introduction to baking, as it involves basic techniques such as whisking, soaking, and baking. The soaking process is crucial as it allows the bread to absorb the milk mixture fully, resulting in a moist and tender pudding. Make sure to keep an eye on the oven as it bakes to achieve that perfect golden crust!
FAQ
Can I use fresh banana bread? While stale bread is ideal for this recipe, fresh banana bread can work as well. Just reduce the soaking time to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Banana Bread Pudding not only showcases the fantastic flavors of banana and cinnamon but also offers a scrumptious way to reduce waste in the kitchen. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or saved for later, this comforting dessert is bound to become a family favorite. So gather your loved ones, serve it up with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and savor every delightful bite!