Banana Bread Pudding

Name: Banana Bread Pudding
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ripe bananas (sliced); 6 cups stale bread (cubed); 2 cups whole milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

Published: October 9, 2025

by samuel cullingham

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This banana bread pudding is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy days.
The flavor profile combines sweet and comforting notes that appeal to all ages.
With its golden-brown top and rich custard underneath, it’s visually stunning on any dessert table.
This recipe is versatile enough to allow for creative twists like adding nuts or chocolate chips.

There was that one time I made banana bread pudding for my friends’ potluck dinner. Let’s just say there weren’t any leftovers, and I earned a reputation as the “Banana Wizard.” For more inspiration, check out this Pineapple Coconut Smoothie recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Stale Bread: Use any leftover bread; day-old French or challah works best for texture.
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich creaminess, but feel free to use your preferred type. hearty gluten free beef chili.
Sugar: Granulated sugar balances the flavors; brown sugar adds extra depth if desired.
Eggs: Fresh eggs bind everything together and create a custardy texture.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and spice; adjust based on taste.
Butter: Melted butter brings richness; consider using unsalted for better control over seasoning.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Layer the Bread and Bananas: Tear the stale bread into chunks and arrange half of them in the greased dish. Slice ripe bananas evenly and spread them over the bread layer before adding the remaining bread on top.

Create the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined. delicious banana muffins Pour this delicious custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and bananas.

Let it Soak In: Allow the mixture to sit for about 15-20 minutes so that the bread absorbs all those heavenly flavors. This step ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.

Bake to Perfection: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s done when you see a puffy texture and a slight jiggle in the center.

Serve Warm with Toppings!: Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat your guests will love!

Content: Using overripe bananas enhances the sweetness and moisture of your banana bread pudding. I’ve learned that those brown-speckled beauties are perfect for this dessert. For more inspiration, check out this Raspberry Chia Pudding recipe recipe.

Use day-old bread for better texture. Fresh bread may get mushy, while stale bread absorbs the custard without losing its structure. I once used fresh bread and ended up with a soggy disaster.

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate flavors. These spices add warmth and depth, transforming your dish into a comforting hug for your taste buds. I always throw in some cinnamon just to feel fancy.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the bread into cubes while you let it dry out slightly on the counter. Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and spices in a separate bowl to create a creamy mixture. Then mix everything together in a large baking dish before sliding it into the oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your banana bread pudding with nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap half of the milk for coconut milk for a unique tropical twist. indulgent chocolate peanut butter cake You can also drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving to take it over the top!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover banana bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warm. If you’re looking to serve it warm from the oven again, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure optimal flavor, use ripe bananas and let them sit out overnight before using them.
Avoid using freshly baked bread; stale bread works best for texture and absorption.
Also, don’t skip letting your pudding rest after baking; this helps it set perfectly.

The first time I made banana bread pudding, my friends devoured it within minutes! Their laughter filled my kitchen as they begged for seconds—an unforgettable moment that turned me into their go-to dessert maker.

FAQ

Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread pudding?

Yes! Frozen bananas work great since they become soft when thawed. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture before mixing them into your pudding.

How long should I bake banana bread pudding?

Bake your banana bread pudding at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45-50 minutes or until it’s golden brown and set in the middle.

What can I serve with banana bread pudding?

Banana bread pudding pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top! A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of decadence and flavor that everyone loves.