Paula Deen’s banana bread recipe is a beloved classic, a comforting treat that evokes nostalgia. But today, we’re taking this timeless recipe and giving it a global twist, transforming it into a decadent and indulgent banana bread pudding.
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
For the Bread Pudding:
1 loaf of Paula Deen’s banana bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 large eggs
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of ground cinnamon
Zest of one lime
¼ cup rum (optional)
Tropical fruit, for serving (e.g., mango, pineapple, papaya)
Vanilla bean ice cream, for serving
Paula Deen Banana Bread – Insanely Good
Image Source: insanelygoodrecipes.com
Instructions:
Total Time: 2 hours
Preparation:
1. Make the Banana Bread:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool completely in the pan before slicing.
2. Prepare the Bread Pudding:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and lime zest. Stir in the rum, if using.
Arrange the banana bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure it’s fully soaked.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the warm bread pudding topped with fresh tropical fruit, such as mango, pineapple, or papaya. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream adds a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
A Fusion of Flavors
This banana bread pudding is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It blends the comforting familiarity of a classic American dessert with the vibrant and exotic flavors of the tropics. The rich, creamy custard, the sweet and caramelized bread, and the bright, tropical fruit create a harmonious symphony of taste and texture.
Each bite is a journey, transporting you to sun-soaked shores and lush, tropical paradises. It’s a dish that celebrates diversity, inviting us to embrace the beauty of different cultures and their culinary traditions.
