Easy Ultimate Banana Bread Pudding Recipe
When it comes to comforting, crowd-pleasing desserts, few recipes can compete with the warm, nostalgic appeal of Banana Bread Pudding. This classic dessert combines the beloved flavors of ripe bananas and soft, custardy bread pudding into a single dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether you grew up enjoying banana bread or love traditional bread pudding, this Banana Bread Pudding brings the best of both worlds together in one satisfying spoonful.
What makes Banana Bread Pudding so irresistible? It’s all about transforming humble, everyday ingredients — like day-old bread, overripe bananas, milk, eggs, and spices — into something truly decadent. Each bite of Banana Bread Pudding is rich, soft, and packed with warm cinnamon and banana flavors. It’s the kind of dessert that’s equally welcome on a weeknight family dinner table or served as the sweet finale to a holiday meal.
The beauty of Banana Bread Pudding is its versatility. You can make it with whatever bread you have on hand, from soft brioche or challah to rustic French bread. You can even use leftover banana bread to double down on the flavor! This makes Banana Bread Pudding an ideal way to reduce food waste while creating a comforting dessert everyone will love.
In the world of easy yet impressive desserts, Banana Bread Pudding is a standout because it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. With just a few pantry staples and ripe bananas, you’ll have a dessert that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. Serve your Banana Bread Pudding warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar — it’s delightful any way you enjoy it.
Whether you’re looking for a simple way to use up extra bread, surprise guests with a classic comfort dessert, or treat your family to a sweet homemade indulgence, Banana Bread Pudding is always a good idea. This guide will walk you through exactly what you’ll need, how to make your Banana Bread Pudding perfectly soft and flavorful every time, and how to store and serve it so it tastes just as good the next day — if there’s any left!
What You’ll Need
Before you start creating your homemade Banana Bread Pudding, it’s helpful to know exactly what you’ll need to pull this comforting dessert together. One of the best things about Banana Bread Pudding is that it doesn’t require any fancy or hard-to-find ingredients — just simple pantry and fridge staples you likely have on hand already.
Bread: The backbone of your Banana Bread Pudding is, of course, the bread. Choose a bread that’s slightly stale so it soaks up the custard better. Brioche, challah, French bread, or even leftover banana bread all work beautifully. You’ll need about 5–6 cups of cubed bread — enough to fill your baking dish comfortably.
Bananas: The star ingredient! Use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor. For this Banana Bread Pudding, you’ll want about 2–3 large bananas mashed into the custard, plus an extra banana sliced on top for a pretty, caramelized finish.
Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the bread and custard together. For a classic Banana Bread Pudding, you’ll need about 4 large eggs.
Milk & Cream: The custard base for your Banana Bread Pudding comes from a mix of milk and heavy cream. This combination gives your pudding a rich, velvety texture. Plan on about 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream for the perfect balance.
Sweetener: You can sweeten your Banana Bread Pudding with granulated sugar or brown sugar. Brown sugar adds a subtle caramel-like depth that pairs wonderfully with bananas. Use about ¾ cup, adjusting to taste.
Flavor Boosters: Cinnamon and a splash of pure vanilla extract take your Banana Bread Pudding to the next level. Some people like to add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for a warm, spiced note.
Optional Add-Ins: While classic Banana Bread Pudding is delicious as is, you can jazz it up with extras like chopped nuts (think pecans or walnuts), chocolate chips, or raisins for added texture and flavor.
Butter: A few tablespoons of melted butter drizzled over the top before baking helps your Banana Bread Pudding get golden and slightly crisp on top.
Baking Dish: You’ll need a medium to large baking dish — an 8×8 or 9×13 dish works well depending on how thick you’d like your Banana Bread Pudding.
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to transforming leftover bread and ripe bananas into the most comforting Banana Bread Pudding you’ve ever tasted. Once your kitchen is stocked, you’ll be ready to mix, bake, and savor every warm bite of this classic treat!
Discover our best bread pudding variations for more cozy desserts.
How to Make (include full measurements)
Making Banana Bread Pudding at home is wonderfully simple, and the results are guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite. This foolproof method walks you through every step to ensure your Banana Bread Pudding comes out perfectly soft, sweet, and infused with rich banana flavor every single time. Here’s exactly how to make your Banana Bread Pudding, complete with full measurements so you can follow along with confidence.
Ingredients
- 5–6 cups cubed bread (brioche, challah, or French bread work great)
- 3 large ripe bananas (2 mashed, 1 sliced for topping)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans, ½ cup chocolate chips, or raisins
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Start your Banana Bread Pudding by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cube the Bread
Cut your bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. If your bread isn’t stale, you can toast the cubes in the oven for about 5–10 minutes to dry them out slightly. This helps them absorb more of the custard mixture, giving your Banana Bread Pudding its signature texture.
3. Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until fully combined. Mash 2 of the ripe bananas and stir them into the custard mixture. This is where your Banana Bread Pudding gets that deep banana flavor in every bite.
4. Combine Bread and Custard
Add the cubed bread to the bowl and gently toss it until every piece is soaked in the custard. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the bread can absorb as much liquid as possible.
5. Transfer and Top
Pour the soaked bread and custard mixture into your prepared baking dish. Arrange the sliced banana evenly over the top for extra banana goodness and a beautiful presentation. Drizzle the melted butter over the top — this helps create a lovely golden crust as your Banana Bread Pudding bakes.
6. Add Optional Extras
If you’d like, sprinkle chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins evenly over the top or gently fold them in before baking. These little additions bring texture and flavor to your Banana Bread Pudding that your guests will love.
7. Bake
Place your Banana Bread Pudding in the oven and bake for about 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set but still slightly soft in the center. A knife inserted into the middle should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool Slightly and Serve
Remove your Banana Bread Pudding from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the custard time to finish setting up.
Serve your warm Banana Bread Pudding with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special dessert that feels like a warm hug.
Serving and Storage Tips
One of the best things about Banana Bread Pudding is how versatile it is when it comes to serving and storing. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven, reheating leftovers the next day, or prepping ahead for a family gathering, these serving and storage tips will help you make the most of your delicious Banana Bread Pudding every time.
How to Serve Banana Bread Pudding
Banana Bread Pudding is best served warm, right out of the oven when the custard is soft and the top is lightly crisp. Scoop generous portions into bowls or onto dessert plates and add your favorite finishing touches. Here are a few serving ideas to make your Banana Bread Pudding unforgettable:
- Top with Ice Cream: Warm Banana Bread Pudding with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is a match made in dessert heaven. The cold, creamy ice cream melts into the warm pudding, creating a luscious contrast.
- Drizzle with Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of homemade caramel or chocolate sauce takes your Banana Bread Pudding to the next level. The extra sweetness pairs beautifully with the rich banana flavor.
- Sprinkle with Nuts: Add some texture with a handful of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top right before serving.
- Add Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream makes every bite of Banana Bread Pudding feel indulgent and special.
- Serve with Fresh Fruit: Balance the richness with a side of fresh berries or sliced bananas for an extra pop of flavor.
How to Store Banana Bread Pudding
If you have leftover Banana Bread Pudding (which is rare because it’s so good!), you can easily store it and enjoy it later.
Refrigerate: Let your Banana Bread Pudding cool to room temperature, then cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat: To reheat, place individual portions of Banana Bread Pudding in the microwave for about 30–60 seconds until warmed through. Or, for larger amounts, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes.
Freeze: While fresh is best, you can freeze Banana Bread Pudding too. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
No matter how you serve or store it, Banana Bread Pudding is a treat that keeps on giving — comforting, satisfying, and so easy to make ahead for any occasion.
Mistakes to Avoid
While Banana Bread Pudding is relatively easy to make, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the texture, flavor, or overall success of the dish. Knowing what to watch out for will help ensure your Banana Bread Pudding turns out perfectly soft, sweet, and satisfying every single time. Whether you’re baking this dessert for the first time or the fiftieth, steering clear of these errors will elevate your baking game.
1. Using Fresh Bread Instead of Stale Bread
One of the key elements in Banana Bread Pudding is the use of slightly stale or day-old bread. Fresh bread tends to be too soft and moist, which can result in a soggy, overly wet pudding that doesn’t hold together well. Stale bread, on the other hand, soaks up the custard beautifully and provides the structure you want. If your bread is fresh, toast the cubes in the oven for 10 minutes before using them.
2. Not Mashing the Bananas Enough
Your Banana Bread Pudding needs mashed bananas evenly incorporated into the custard base to infuse the entire dish with banana flavor. Leaving chunks of banana can create uneven flavor pockets or affect the smoothness of your custard. Make sure the bananas are thoroughly mashed and fully mixed into the custard mixture before soaking the bread.
3. Skipping the Soak Time
Don’t rush the soaking process. Letting your bread cubes soak in the custard for at least 10–15 minutes before baking is crucial. This step allows the bread to absorb the liquid fully, resulting in a soft, pudding-like texture. If you skip this or rush it, your Banana Bread Pudding might bake unevenly and have dry or soggy sections.
4. Overbaking the Pudding
It’s easy to think that longer baking means firmer pudding, but overbaking can dry out your Banana Bread Pudding and give it a rubbery texture. Bake it just until the custard is set but still a little jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
5. Using Unripe Bananas
Bananas are the heart of this dessert. Using under-ripe bananas means your Banana Bread Pudding will lack sweetness and depth of flavor. Always use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots — they bring out the rich, caramel-like flavor you want in every bite.
6. Ignoring Flavor Enhancements
Although Banana Bread Pudding is delicious on its own, adding flavor enhancers like vanilla extract, cinnamon, or a dash of nutmeg gives it extra depth. Skipping these can result in a bland pudding. Balance is key — don’t go overboard, but don’t leave them out entirely.
7. Not Greasing the Baking Dish
Failing to grease your baking dish can cause your beautiful Banana Bread Pudding to stick and break apart when serving. Use butter or non-stick spray generously so you can lift clean slices or spoonfuls easily.
Avoiding these mistakes is the key to consistently excellent Banana Bread Pudding. When you combine proper technique with the right ingredients and a little patience, the result is a warm, comforting dessert that’s just the right mix of soft, sweet, and utterly satisfying.
Tips and Tricks
To take your Banana Bread Pudding from good to absolutely unforgettable, it helps to have a few pro tips and tricks up your sleeve. Whether you’re making it for the first time or trying to perfect your recipe, these insider tips will ensure your Banana Bread Pudding turns out perfectly every time.
1. Let the Custard Rest with the Bread
One of the best tips for rich, flavorful Banana Bread Pudding is to let your bread soak in the custard for at least 15 minutes before baking. For even better results, cover the dish and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. The longer soak allows the bread to fully absorb the banana custard, giving you that soft, creamy texture throughout.
2. Use a Variety of Bread Types
While a single bread type works fine, combining two types — such as brioche and French bread — can give your Banana Bread Pudding a more complex texture. The softer bread breaks down more easily, while the sturdier bread maintains some bite, creating the perfect contrast.
3. Add a Crunchy Topping
If you love contrast in textures, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking. You can also mix a bit of brown sugar and oats with melted butter to create a crisp streusel topping. This turns your Banana Bread Pudding into an irresistible baked treat with layers of texture.
4. Try Individual Servings
For dinner parties or elegant presentations, bake your Banana Bread Pudding in individual ramekins or muffin tins. These personal-sized portions look stunning and bake a little faster than a full dish.
5. Make It Ahead
Banana Bread Pudding is a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare the whole dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This is especially helpful for holidays or entertaining when oven space is limited. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
6. Use High-Quality Vanilla and Spices
Small upgrades in ingredients go a long way. Use real vanilla extract, fresh cinnamon, and even a pinch of sea salt to enhance the depth of flavor in your Banana Bread Pudding. The banana flavor shines even more when surrounded by quality complementary ingredients.
7. Customize with Mix-ins
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Add-ins like dark chocolate chunks, dried fruit, coconut flakes, or even a swirl of peanut butter can turn your classic Banana Bread Pudding into something uniquely yours. Just keep the proportions reasonable to maintain the right custard-to-bread ratio.
These tips and tricks are designed to help you get the most out of your Banana Bread Pudding recipe, no matter your skill level in the kitchen. With just a few thoughtful adjustments, your next Banana Bread Pudding can be the most memorable dessert on the table.
Suggestions
Banana Bread Pudding is one of those magical desserts that can be endlessly customized to suit any palate, occasion, or dietary need. While the classic version is always a hit, sometimes it’s fun to put your own twist on it. Whether you’re looking for something fruity, chocolatey, nutty, or even plant-based, Banana Bread Pudding is the ideal canvas for creative baking.
1. Add Chocolate Elements
If you’re a chocolate lover, you can stir in chocolate chips, chunks of dark chocolate, or even swirl in a bit of chocolate hazelnut spread like Nutella for a decadent variation. A chocolate drizzle on top after baking gives your Banana Bread Pudding a dessert-worthy finish that feels indulgent and special.
2. Incorporate Fruits
Bananas are the foundation of Banana Bread Pudding, but adding complementary fruits brings extra flavor and flair. Try folding in a handful of blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples into the bread mixture. Dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or raisins also add texture and a sweet-tart contrast to the banana flavor.
3. Go Tropical
For a summery twist, combine your mashed bananas with crushed pineapple, coconut flakes, or even a splash of coconut milk in place of some cream. This tropical Banana Bread Pudding variation is vibrant, refreshing, and still deeply comforting.
4. Try Nutty Add-Ins
Pecans, walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts all work wonderfully in Banana Bread Pudding. Whether folded into the custard-soaked bread or sprinkled on top, nuts bring a satisfying crunch and added richness. Just be sure to toast them lightly first for maximum flavor.
5. Make It Dairy-Free
For a non-dairy version of Banana Bread Pudding, substitute almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for the dairy, and use a plant-based butter. These alternatives maintain the creamy texture while making the dessert accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
6. Use Flavored Sauces
Toppings can elevate your Banana Bread Pudding to a whole new level. Instead of standard caramel, consider a salted caramel, butterscotch, or maple glaze. A warm vanilla sauce or even a banana cream sauce adds elegance and enhances the overall flavor.
7. Make a Breakfast Version
Yes, Banana Bread Pudding can be breakfast too! Reduce the sugar slightly, mix in fresh fruit, and serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or drizzle of honey. It’s a delicious, make-ahead option for weekend brunch or holiday mornings.
8. Experiment with Spices
The usual cinnamon is delicious, but don’t stop there. Try adding a pinch of cardamom, ginger, or even pumpkin pie spice for seasonal flair. Spices can bring out different dimensions in your Banana Bread Pudding and make it feel completely new with just one adjustment.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, baking for your family, or just treating yourself to a cozy dessert, these ideas can help you make Banana Bread Pudding uniquely yours. Play with textures, flavors, and toppings to keep your banana bread pudding experience fresh and exciting every time.
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Banana Bread Pudding — answered to help you perfect this comforting dessert and explore its many delicious possibilities.
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
While fresh bread can technically be used in Banana Bread Pudding, it’s not ideal. Stale or day-old bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a richer, more structured pudding. If your bread is fresh, try toasting the cubes in the oven for 10 minutes before soaking them.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper, the better. Overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots are ideal for Banana Bread Pudding because they offer maximum sweetness and flavor. Underripe bananas will not blend as well and can taste bland once baked.
Can I make Banana Bread Pudding ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, Banana Bread Pudding often tastes even better the next day. You can assemble it ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
Can I freeze Banana Bread Pudding?
Absolutely. Allow the pudding to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic and foil, or store in an airtight container. Banana Bread Pudding can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem. You can substitute whole milk or use half-and-half for a slightly lighter version. Some bakers even use evaporated milk or non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk, especially for tropical-style Banana Bread Pudding.
How do I know when Banana Bread Pudding is done baking?
Your Banana Bread Pudding is ready when the top is golden and the custard is set but still soft. A knife inserted in the center should come out mostly clean, and the center should jiggle just a little when shaken. Overbaking will dry it out, so keep an eye on it after the 40-minute mark.
Can I serve it cold?
Yes! While many prefer Banana Bread Pudding warm, it’s just as delicious chilled. Cold pudding firms up more, which makes it easier to slice neatly for serving. It’s also a great option during warmer months.
Is it possible to make Banana Bread Pudding without eggs?
Yes — for an egg-free version of Banana Bread Pudding, try using mashed bananas (as already included), blended silken tofu, or a commercial egg replacer. The result will be slightly different in texture but still delicious and banana-rich.
These common questions and answers should help you feel confident baking, storing, serving, and customizing Banana Bread Pudding to perfection — whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.
Conclusion
There’s something timeless and comforting about Banana Bread Pudding. It takes humble, familiar ingredients — ripe bananas, leftover bread, a few pantry staples — and transforms them into a cozy, satisfying dessert that feels like home. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday dinner, a weekend treat, or just because you have too many bananas sitting on the counter, Banana Bread Pudding never disappoints.
We’ve covered everything from what you’ll need and step-by-step instructions to helpful tips, creative variations, and smart storage solutions. With this guide in hand, you can approach your next Banana Bread Pudding with confidence and creativity. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t just taste good — it brings people together. The aroma of cinnamon and banana filling your kitchen as it bakes is enough to call the whole family to the table.
Best of all, Banana Bread Pudding is adaptable. You can make it simple and classic, or you can jazz it up with chocolate, spices, fruits, or nuts. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or eat it cold straight from the fridge — there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.
As you continue exploring and baking more desserts, keep Banana Bread Pudding in your regular rotation. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, budget-friendly, and endlessly flexible — a shining example of how a few basic ingredients can create something truly special. So the next time you’re wondering what to do with those overripe bananas or that half loaf of bread, you know what to make.
Try it once, and Banana Bread Pudding might just become your go-to comfort dessert for years to come.
