Name: Irresistible Banana Bread Pudding with Creamy Vanilla Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 6 cups Day-old French bread (Cut into bite-sized cubes); 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (Melted); 4 large Eggs (Lightly beaten); 2 cups Milk (2% preferred or substitute); 0.5 cups Granulated sugar (Adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Use pure for best flavor); 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (Adjust to preference); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness); 4 medium Firm bananas (Ripe but still firm); 1 cup Raisins (Optional); 0.25 cups Unsalted butter (Melted); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (For thickening); 0.5 cups Granulated sugar (Adjust based on preference); 1 cup Milk (Non-dairy works well too); 0.25 cups Corn syrup (For sweetness and shine); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Enhances flavor)

As I pulled a tray of banana bread pudding from the oven, the sweet aroma enveloped my kitchen, instantly whisking me away to cozy brunches with family. This Easy Banana Bread Pudding is a delightful marriage of classic bread pudding textures and the comforting flavors of banana bread, smoothing the edges between breakfast and dessert. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s the perfect use for those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Plus, the distinct layer of rich, homemade vanilla sauce transforms this dish from simple to sensational, making it a true crowd-pleaser for brunch gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a quick morning treat or a sweet ending to your day, this recipe delivers—and it’s easier than you might think! Ready to dive into this sweet indulgence? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Banana Bread Pudding a Must-Try?

Decadent, Comforting Flavors: Each bite offers a warm hug of banana goodness, perfectly complimented by the creamy vanilla sauce.

Easy to Make: With just a few staple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to impress in no time.

Perfect for Any Meal: Whether for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The combination of banana and bread pudding means you’ll be the star of any gathering without the fuss.

Great for Using Up Bananas: No more overripe bananas going to waste; this recipe puts them to tasty use! For a delightful dessert, check out this Mango Coconut Pudding too!

Banana Bread Pudding Ingredients

• Perfect for your baking adventure!

For the Pudding

Day-old French bread – Use bread that’s at least a day old to provide structure and body; fresh bread can become too mushy.
Unsalted butter – Melt for richer flavor and easy incorporation into the mixture.
Large eggs – Fresh eggs work best as they bind the pudding together seamlessly.
Milk (2% preferred) – Adds moisture and creaminess; can substitute with whole milk or a non-dairy option if needed.
Granulated sugar – Adjust to your taste; consider swapping for brown sugar to deepen the sweetness.
Vanilla extract – Go for pure vanilla extract for a lovely flavor boost.
Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; you can adjust the amount to suit your preference.
Salt – Balances out the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Firm bananas – Ensure bananas are ripe but still firm to maintain their shape in the pudding.
Raisins (optional) – Adds a chewy texture and a hint of extra sweetness; feel free to leave out if you prefer!

For the Vanilla Sauce

Unsalted butter – A must-have for that rich sauce flavor!
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce to a luxurious consistency.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the sauce beautifully; you can adjust based on your preference.
Milk – Adds creaminess to the sauce; non-dairy milk also works well.
Corn syrup – Provides a beautiful shine and sweetness to finish off the sauce.
Vanilla extract – A splash of pure vanilla always enhances the overall taste!

This Banana Bread Pudding recipe is not only easy to whip up but also an unforgettable treat that leaves a lasting impression. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, grab a 2 to 3-quart casserole dish and generously greasing it with unsalted butter to prevent sticking. Once greased, take your day-old French bread and cut it into bite-sized cubes before placing it into the prepared dish, setting everything aside for the next step.

Step 2: Butter the Bread
Melt about 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Once melted, pour the hot butter over the cubed bread in the casserole dish. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss the bread pieces, ensuring each piece is evenly coated in melted butter for added richness.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a separate medium bowl, crack and lightly beat 4 large eggs. Then add 2 cups of milk, half a cup of granulated sugar, a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture is well combined and smooth, creating the custard base for your Banana Bread Pudding.

Step 4: Incorporate Bananas and Raisins
Next, peel and slice your firm bananas, ensuring they are ripe but not overly soft. Carefully fold the banana slices into the custard mixture, along with any optional raisins if you’re using them. The bananas will add delightful flavor and texture to this Banana Bread Pudding, so make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the custard mixture over the buttered bread cubes in the casserole dish. Using a spatula, gently stir the mixture together, ensuring all the bread pieces are fully coated with the custard. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes to let the bread soak up the custardy goodness before baking.

Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know your Banana Bread Pudding is done when the top is golden brown and there’s no liquid pooling in the center. The texture should be a perfect balance of a crisp exterior and a soft, custardy interior.

Step 7: Prepare the Vanilla Sauce
While your Banana Bread Pudding is baking, make the creamy vanilla sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter, and once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until dissolved. Gradually add in half a cup of granulated sugar and one cup of milk, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil, then let it boil for 1 to 1.5 minutes before stirring in a teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove your Banana Bread Pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly. Pour the warm vanilla sauce generously over each serving, allowing it to soak in and enhance the flavors. This comforting dish is best served warm, celebrating the delicious marriage of textures and flavors that everyone will love!

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Bread Pudding are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the entire mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the buttered bread, custard mixture, and bananas in your casserole dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. This advance prep allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the preheated oven for about 45 to 50 minutes, ensuring a crispy top and creamy interior. To maintain its quality, avoid soaking the bread too long before baking, as it can become overly soggy. With these simple make-ahead options, you’ll have a delightful Banana Bread Pudding ready to impress your family or guests with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Pudding

Fridge: Store leftover Banana Bread Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled banana bread pudding tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat individual servings in the microwave or place the whole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly, about 15-20 minutes.

Texture Maintenance: To keep the pudding’s custardy texture, avoid reheating too quickly or at too high a temperature, as this can cause it to dry out.

What to Serve with Easy Banana Bread Pudding?

Elevate your brunch spread with these delightful pairings that perfectly complement every rich bite of banana bread pudding.

Fresh Berries: Bright and tart, berries like strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the creamy sweetness of the pudding.
Whipped Cream: Lusciously smooth, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the dessert-like quality and adds a fluffy texture.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon provides a savory element that balances the sweet custard beautifully—a delightful surprise!
Coffee or Espresso: A hot cup of coffee or a shot of espresso complements the banana flavors while providing a comforting warmth to your meal.
Ice Cream: Indulge further with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream, creating a delightful melty effect with every spoonful.
Nutty Granola: For added crunch, sprinkle some nutty granola on top. It adds both texture and a wholesome flavor that contrasts beautifully with the pudding’s softness.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the finished dish enhances sweetness and adds a floral note, creating a delightful layering of flavors.
Cinnamon-Sugar Toast: Serve warm, buttered toast sprinkled with cinnamon sugar for a cozy side that echoes the pudding’s flavors.

Expert Tips for Banana Bread Pudding

Banana Selection: Choose firm bananas: Overripe bananas can turn mushy during baking; using just ripe bananas ensures they hold their shape beautifully.
Avoid Overbaking: Check for doneness: Keep an eye on your pudding; it should be set without pooling liquid in the center, providing a delightful custardy interior.
Vanilla Sauce Importance: Don’t skip the sauce: Although optional, the rich homemade vanilla sauce elevates the entire dish, adding a luscious touch to your Banana Bread Pudding.
Bread Types: Experiment with bread: Try using brioche or challah for an even richer flavor and texture in your pudding, creating layers of indulgence.
Make Ahead: Store properly: If making ahead, cover and store the baked pudding in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain that fluffy texture upon serving.

Banana Bread Pudding Variations to Savor

Embrace your creativity and customize this delicious Banana Bread Pudding to fit your taste and dietary needs!

Brioche Bliss: Substitute French bread with brioche for an even more indulgent flavor and richer texture. It offers a heavenly taste that elevates the experience.
Challah Delight: Use challah bread in place of French bread for a sweet and fluffy alternative. This twist adds a lovely golden color and enhances the pudding’s overall richness.
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added nuttiness. Nuts elevate the texture beautifully, creating an irresistible contrast with the soft pudding.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips into the mixture for a decadent twist. The melting chocolate will make each bite a delightful surprise, perfect for any chocolate enthusiast!
Spice It Up: Experiment with a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a warm, comforting background flavor. This small change can add complexity that enchants the palate.
Fruit Fusion: Toss in diced apples or berries for a fruity spin. These not only provide color but a lovely burst of flavor that brightens the pudding.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. This ensures everyone can enjoy your scrumptious creation without sacrificing taste.
Caramelize It: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked pudding for an extra layer of sweetness. It pairs perfectly with the vanilla sauce and takes it from delicious to divine!

For more sweet creations, consider crafting a refreshing dessert with this delightful Mango Coconut Pudding. Enjoy exploring these variations!

Banana Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for Banana Bread Pudding?
I recommend using day-old French bread for the best texture. It has the right firmness to hold up during baking, whereas fresh bread can become too mushy.

How should I store leftover Banana Bread Pudding?
Store any leftover banana bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, lightly reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze Banana Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the banana bread pudding to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my Banana Bread Pudding turns out too dry?
If your pudding turns out dry, it may have been overbaked. To avoid this, ensure you check for doneness; it should be set with no liquid pooling in the center. If it does get overbaked, you can drizzle additional vanilla sauce on top before serving to add moisture back in.

Are there any dietary considerations for making this recipe?
Yes! If you have allergies, note that this recipe contains eggs and dairy. For non-dairy options, you can use almond milk or oat milk and carefully consider egg substitutes if needed (e.g., flaxseed meal blended with water).

Can I use overripe bananas for the pudding?
Overripe bananas are great for flavor! However, for this recipe, choose firm bananas to maintain their texture throughout baking. Too soft bananas can break down too much and affect the overall consistency of the pudding.