Description
This Bananas Foster Bread Pudding is an indulgent, comforting dessert combining rich brioche soaked in a creamy spiced custard with caramelized bananas flambéed in dark rum. Baked to golden perfection and topped with crunchy pecans, it’s a warm, delicious twist on the classic bread pudding that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Custard
- 4 cups cubed day-old brioche or French bread
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, divided
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Bananas and Topping
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Bread: Place the cubed brioche or French bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, 1/2 cup of the brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the custard is smooth and well combined.
- Soak Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed bread and gently press down to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to fully soak.
- Caramelize Bananas: In a skillet over medium heat, add the remaining brown sugar and dark rum, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the sliced bananas and cook for 2–3 minutes until they are slightly caramelized and fragrant.
- Assemble Topping: Spoon the caramelized banana mixture evenly over the soaked bread pudding base. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top if using, adding a lovely crunch.
- Bake: Bake the pudding uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set and no longer jiggly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. For extra indulgence, serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- For extra indulgence, serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- If avoiding alcohol, substitute the rum with apple juice or omit entirely.
- Slightly overripe bananas work best for maximum banana flavor and sweetness.
