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Bananas Foster Bread Pudding

Bananas Foster Bread Pudding

Bananas Foster Bread Pudding is a rich and creamy dessert that combines caramelized ripe bananas with a smooth custard and soft bread cubes. This indulgent yet comforting treat offers layers of sweet, buttery, and warm flavors, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Easy to prepare with pantry staples, it’s adaptable for various dietary preferences and features classic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg along with an optional hint of dark rum.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bread Pudding

  • 6 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)

Optional Variations & Garnishes

  • Toasted pecans or walnuts
  • Chocolate chips (dark or milk)
  • Gluten-free bread (as substitute)
  • Full-fat coconut milk (instead of heavy cream for dairy-free)
  • Vanilla or banana extract (instead of rum for alcohol-free version)
  • Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, powdered sugar, and extra Bananas Foster sauce for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bananas Foster Sauce: Melt butter and brown sugar in a skillet over medium heat until bubbly. Add sliced ripe bananas and cook gently until caramelized and tender. Stir in rum carefully if using, then allow it to simmer for one minute to blend flavors.
  2. Cube and Toast the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. Toast the bread cubes lightly in the oven or on a pan to help maintain their structure and prevent sogginess.
  3. Make the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and fully combined.
  4. Combine Bread and Sauce: Fold the toasted bread cubes and caramelized bananas into the custard mixture, ensuring the bread absorbs all the liquid. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow maximum flavor infusion.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a buttered baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown with a slight crust.

Notes

  • Use sturdy breads like brioche or challah for best texture.
  • Allow bread to soak in custard for at least 10 minutes for rich flavor.
  • Caramelize bananas gently to keep them soft but intact.
  • Use room temperature eggs and dairy to improve custard smoothness.
  • Avoid overbaking; the pudding should have a slight jiggle when done.
  • Alcohol can be omitted or replaced with extracts for family-friendly versions.
  • Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently in microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or cream to retain creaminess.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free bread)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of recipe)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: Bananas Foster, Bread Pudding, Dessert, Caramelized Bananas, Custard, Comfort Food, Easy Dessert