If you’re looking for a comforting, wholesome dessert or a special breakfast treat, the Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe is a total game-changer. It combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and maple syrup with creamy Greek yogurt for a luscious custard that soaks into hearty bread cubes. Each bite bursts with warm cinnamon hints and a satisfying texture, making it the perfect dish to cozy up with on any day. This recipe is easy to whip up but feels indulgently special from the first forkful to the last.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but come together to create an incredible balance of flavors, textures, and a beautiful golden color. Every component plays a key role, whether it’s the tender bread cubes soaking up the custard or the cinnamon adding that perfect warm spice.
- 4 cups whole grain or day-old bread, cubed: Day-old bread soaks up the custard perfectly without becoming mushy.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, plus a lovely banana flavor.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla): Brings creamy richness and a subtle tang that lifts the dish.
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy): Helps create the custard base for soaking the bread.
- ½ cup maple syrup: Provides a deep, natural sweetness with its signature caramel notes.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the custard ingredients, giving structure to the pudding.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that pairs beautifully with banana and maple.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brings depth to the flavors.
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Offers a crunchy texture and nutty contrast if you like a little extra bite.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to keep the pudding from sticking and to make sure it bakes evenly.
Step 2: Arrange the Bread
Evenly spread your cubed bread in the prepared baking dish. Using whole grain or day-old bread is key here since they hold up to soaking without turning to mush, ensuring delightful texture in the final dish.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, milk, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and thoroughly combined. This custard mixture is the heart of the Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe, delivering richness and flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure every piece is well coated. Give the bread a gentle press down so it soaks up all those delicious flavors. Then, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before baking to allow maximum absorption.
Step 5: Add Nuts and Bake
If you’re using chopped walnuts or pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the top for a toasty crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until the pudding’s top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the center is set but still tender.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your bread pudding cool just slightly before serving. This pause helps the pudding settle for a perfect slice every time, ready for that finishing touch of extra maple syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this dish is it’s already full of flavor, but a few simple garnishes can elevate it further. A drizzle of maple syrup on top or a spoonful of extra Greek yogurt adds a creamy contrast and an inviting glossy finish. For a fresh touch, sprinkle on some sliced bananas or a few chopped nuts to enhance the texture.
Side Dishes
This bread pudding shines beautifully on its own but can also pair perfectly with a light fruit salad or a handful of fresh berries to add brightness and balance. If you’re serving it as breakfast or brunch, a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea is a lovely compliment.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to surprise guests? Try serving the Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation. Another lovely idea is to layer it with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey for a parfait-style treat that feels elegant yet comforting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld more over time, making reheated bites just as delightful as fresh.
Freezing
This bread pudding freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds until warmed through, or place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to refresh the top’s crispiness. A quick drizzle of maple syrup before serving really revives its inviting flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While whole grain or day-old bread works best for texture, you can use brioche, challah, or sourdough. Just keep in mind that very soft breads may become mushy if soaked too long.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the milk for your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Choose a dairy-free yogurt alternative to replace Greek yogurt, and you’ll still get a creamy, delicious result.
Can I add other fruits or mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in blueberries, chopped apples, or raisins for extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful of adding too much liquid, which could affect the custard consistency.
How sweet is this bread pudding?
The maple syrup provides a gentle, natural sweetness complemented by the ripe bananas. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little extra syrup or top with honey when serving.
Can I prepare this the night before and bake it in the morning?
Yes! After soaking the bread in the custard, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning—this can actually deepen the flavors and save time on busy days.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe is like giving yourself a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to impress at brunch. The combination of banana, maple, and creamy yogurt creates a comforting dish you’ll want to make again and again. So, go ahead, treat yourself and those you love to this delicious, wholesome delight—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding is a wholesome twist on a classic dessert, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and maple syrup with the creamy tang of Greek yogurt. Made with whole grain bread and enriched with warming cinnamon and optional crunchy nuts, this comforting baked dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups whole grain or day-old bread, cubed
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare your baking environment.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Bread: Spread the cubed whole grain bread evenly in the baking dish, creating an even layer for soaking.
- Mix Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, milk, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Gently press down on the bread to help absorb the liquid evenly.
- Soak: Let the bread soak in the custard mixture for 10 minutes to fully absorb the flavors.
- Add Nuts: If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake the bread pudding for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with extra maple syrup and optionally top with additional Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Notes
- Using day-old bread helps it absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with your favorite non-dairy milk and use a dairy-free yogurt.
- Adjust maple syrup quantity according to your preferred sweetness level.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.
- Optional nuts can be omitted to keep it nut-free.
