Banana Bread Pudding Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious Ideas

Banana bread pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the best of two classic favorites: banana bread and bread pudding. This vegetarian recipe makes use of ripe bananas, soft bread, and a custardy mixture to create a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for any season.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast, a sweet snack, or a delightful dessert, this recipe offers a simple yet indulgent way to enjoy bananas and bread in a new form.

What makes this banana bread pudding recipe special is its vegetarian-friendly approach without compromising on flavor or texture. It’s easy to prepare, uses common pantry ingredients, and delivers a creamy, flavorful pudding with hints of banana and warm spices.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas and leftover bread, making it both delicious and economical.

Get ready to impress your family or guests with this delightful dish that tastes like a hug in a bowl. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana bread pudding is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it combines two beloved desserts into one — the soft, moist texture of banana bread with the creamy, custard-soaked richness of bread pudding.

This recipe is perfect for vegetarians as it uses eggs and dairy, but no meat or gelatin. It’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.

Secondly, it’s a wonderful way to reduce food waste by using overripe bananas and day-old bread. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas means you can reduce added sugar, making it a slightly healthier dessert option.

Lastly, it’s incredibly versatile — serve it warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or cold with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old bread, cubed (preferably brioche or challah)
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk (or any plant-based milk for vegan option)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (or coconut oil for vegan)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips or raisins

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk or fork
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Fork or potato masher for mashing bananas
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cube the bread into roughly 1-inch pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mash the bananas in a medium bowl using a fork or potato masher until smooth but still slightly chunky.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread and gently toss to coat all the bread pieces evenly. Let it soak for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard.
6. Add the mashed bananas, melted butter, and optional nuts or chocolate chips into the bread mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly distributed.
7. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
9. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Optional: drizzle with maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based milk and coconut oil instead of butter.

Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or mix in chocolate chips for a chocolaty twist. Dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries add a nice chewiness.

If you want extra flavor, sprinkle some orange zest or a splash of rum into the custard mixture.

To ensure the bread pudding is moist, don’t skimp on soaking time — let the bread absorb the custard well before baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread pudding is delicious served warm, straight out of the oven. For an extra indulgent experience, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Vegan eaters can use coconut whipped cream or a drizzle of coconut yogurt.

You can also pair it with a drizzle of pure maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a sprinkle of toasted coconut can add bright, fresh contrast to the rich pudding.

Looking for more comforting baked treats? Try our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or for a fun twist on breakfast, our Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Conclusion

Banana bread pudding is a perfect way to bring together simple ingredients to create a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to please vegetarians and dessert lovers alike. This recipe is not only easy to make but also adaptable to various dietary needs with simple substitutions.

Using ripe bananas and leftover bread, you can reduce food waste while treating yourself to a warm, custardy delight. Whether you serve it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this banana bread pudding will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and mix-ins to make it uniquely yours!

For more tasty ideas that complement this dessert, check out our Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe or dive into some refreshing drinks like the Green Goodness Juice Recipe.

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