Easy Peasy Banana Bread (No Butter Needed)

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Imagine a warm, comforting dessert that marries the classic simplicity of banana bread with the indulgent richness of a bread pudding. This isn’t your ordinary banana bread recipe, though. We’ve taken this beloved treat and elevated it to new heights, infusing it with global flavors and a touch of culinary magic.

Ingredients:

For the Banana Bread:

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Bread Pudding:
  • 1 loaf of the above banana bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon
  • Optional: A handful of raisins or chopped nuts

  • Healthy Banana Bread
    Healthy Banana Bread

    Image Source: cookieandkate.com

    Preparation:

    Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

    Banana Bread:

    1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
    2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
    3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
    4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
    5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    6. Let cool completely before cutting into cubes.

    Bread Pudding:

    1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
    3. Add the cubed banana bread to the custard mixture and stir to coat.
    4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
    5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is set and golden brown.
    6. Let cool slightly before serving.

    Serving Ideas:

    Warm and comforting: Serve the bread pudding warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

  • A touch of elegance: Dust the bread pudding with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries.
  • A global fusion: Pair the bread pudding with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.

  • A Culinary Journey

    This banana bread pudding isn’t just a dessert; it’s a journey through time and culture. The humble banana, a staple in many tropical regions, finds its way into a classic American comfort food. The bread pudding itself, a dish with roots in British and French cuisine, is given a modern twist with the addition of warm spices and sweet flavors.

    As you savor each bite of this delightful creation, you’ll taste the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. It’s a testament to the power of food to bring people together, transcending borders and cultures.