Banana Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

Overview

This delicious dessert combines the comforting flavors of banana bread with the rich sweetness of caramel sauce. It serves 8-10 people and is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The cooking temperature is 350°F (175°C) and the total cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This recipe requires some prep work, but the end result is well worth the effort.

Ingredients

• 6 ripe bananas
• 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
3. Add the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the bowl and whisk until well combined.
4. Stir in the cubed bread and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.
5. If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 1 hour, or until the pudding is set and golden brown.
7. While the pudding is baking, prepare the caramel sauce (see below).
8. Once the pudding is done, let it cool slightly before serving with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Caramel Sauce

To make the caramel sauce, you will need:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then let it cook without stirring until it turns a deep amber color.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before serving over the banana bread pudding.

Summary

Banana bread pudding with caramel sauce is a decadent and comforting dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of moist banana bread and rich caramel sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy!