Ingredients:

4-5 ripe bananas, mashed

6 cups cubed day-old bread (like French bread or brioche)

2 cups milk

1 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Pinch of salt

Optional Additions:

1/2 cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with butter or cooking spray.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until well combined.

Add the cubed bread to the bowl and gently toss until all the bread is coated with the banana mixture. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.

If you’re adding any optional ingredients like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, fold them into the bread mixture now.

Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled.

Optionally, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Enjoy your delicious banana bread pudding! It’s perfect for dessert or even as a special breakfast treat.