Martha Stewart’s Banana Nut bread is a classic, a comforting treat that evokes memories of cozy mornings and warm afternoons. But today, we’re taking this beloved recipe to new heights, transforming it into a decadent and indulgent dessert: Banana Nut Bread Pudding.
Ingredients:
1 loaf Martha Stewart’s Banana Nut Bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
Image Source: marthastewart.com
Preparation Process:
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
3. Create the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Assemble the Pudding: Arrange the cubed banana bread in the prepared baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each cube is fully coated.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with caramel sauce and serve warm.
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Serving Ideas:
Classic: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cultural Influences:
This dish is a beautiful fusion of American comfort food and European culinary traditions. The banana bread itself, a staple in American households, provides the base for this indulgent dessert. The custard, a classic French technique, adds richness and creaminess. The caramel sauce, a beloved treat in many cultures, provides a sweet and salty contrast.
By combining these elements, we’ve created a dish that is both familiar and exotic, a testament to the power of culinary creativity. It’s a dish that celebrates the diversity of flavors and techniques, inviting us to savor each bite and appreciate the global culinary heritage.
