Banana Bread Pudding

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Banana Bread Pudding, enhanced with the aromatic touch of cardamom. This delightful dessert combines ripe bananas, warm spices, and a creamy custard for a truly satisfying treat.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or brioche)
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine: Pour the banana custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently stir to ensure all the bread is coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
5. Add Toppings: If using, fold in the chopped nuts and chocolate chips.
6. Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Banana Bread Pudding with Cardamom!