If you are craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug yet packs a wholesome punch, the Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need. This comforting dish brings together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the rich depth of maple syrup, all elevated by creamy Greek yogurt. It transforms simple, day-old bread into a luscious, custardy delight that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. The fusion of textures and flavors makes this recipe a true crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture. From the hearty bread cubes providing structure to the aromatic cinnamon that warms every bite, each addition brings its own magic to this dish.
- 4 cups whole grain or day-old bread, cubed: Day-old bread absorbs the custard beautifully to create a sponge-like texture without becoming mushy.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: They add natural sweetness and moisture while enhancing the bread pudding’s flavor profile.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla): This thick, creamy yogurt adds tanginess and a luscious richness that sets this bread pudding apart from the rest.
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy): Milk helps achieve that custard texture and keeps the pudding soft and creamy.
- ½ cup maple syrup: The star sweetener offering a warm, caramel-like depth that perfectly complements the bananas and cinnamon.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs bind everything together and create the custard that holds the bread pudding’s structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances all the flavors with its sweet, fragrant aroma.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds an inviting warmth and spice that gives this pudding its cozy character.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Just enough salt to balance the sweetness and heighten the overall flavor.
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For a delightful crunch that contrasts the soft pudding and adds nutty richness.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go when your pudding is assembled. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving — it’s a small but important step that makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Arrange the Bread Cubes
Spread the cubed bread evenly in your greased baking dish. Using whole grain or day-old bread will help soak up the custard without falling apart, laying the perfect foundation for the pudding.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, milk, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until it’s smooth and fully combined, ensuring those flavors are perfectly married before they meet the bread.
Step 4: Combine and Soak
Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all pieces get a good coating. Gently press down the bread with a spatula to help it absorb all that delicious liquid. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes — this soaking step is crucial to achieving that custard-soaked texture that makes bread pudding so irresistible.
Step 5: Top and Bake
If you love a little extra texture, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans across the top. Then, bake the pudding in your preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the surface turns golden brown and the center is set. The smell wafting from your oven will have you counting down the minutes!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the pudding to cool slightly so it firms up just enough for clean slices. Drizzle with extra maple syrup, add a dollop of Greek yogurt, or dust with a sprinkle of cinnamon to finish off your warm, comforting creation.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your bread pudding’s flavors and presentation with simple garnishes like a light drizzle of pure maple syrup for extra sweetness or a fresh spoonful of Greek yogurt for tangy creaminess. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon powder adds visual appeal and texture contrast that will impress any guest.
Side Dishes
This pudding pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, such as sliced berries or apple compote, which brighten the richness and add fresh acidity. For brunch gatherings, a side of crisp bacon or spicy sausage can beautifully complement the sweet, custardy elements of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a flourish of whipped cream and toasted nuts. Alternatively, layer smaller cubes of bread pudding in a glass to create a parfait effect with alternating dollops of Greek yogurt and drizzles of maple syrup — a feast for both eyes and palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep it moist and flavorful, perfect for an easy grab-and-go treat the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover portions in freezer-safe containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy that same comforting taste on a busy day.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes until warm, or place in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes to revive that lovely baked texture. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw first for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bread for this bread pudding?
Yes, but day-old whole grain or sourdough bread works best because it soaks up the custard without turning mushy. Avoid very soft or fresh bread as it may fall apart too easily.
Is it possible to make this pudding dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite non-dairy milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, and make sure to choose a dairy-free Greek-style yogurt to keep the texture and taste close to the original.
Can I add other fruits or spices?
Definitely! Adding berries, apples, or a pinch of nutmeg can put your own spin on the recipe. Just keep the banana and maple syrup combination as the base to maintain that signature flavor.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute eggs with flaxseed “eggs” (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and choose plant-based yogurt and milk. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.
What can I serve with Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe for breakfast?
It’s perfect with coffee or tea, fresh fruit on the side, or paired with a protein like scrambled eggs or smoked salmon to round out your morning meal.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe that the Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like pure comfort wrapped in a wholesome package. Whether you’re starting your day or ending it with something sweet, this recipe delights every time. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your home, just like it has in mine.
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Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding is a wholesome and comforting dessert or breakfast option featuring whole grain bread soaked in a creamy custard made from mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, milk, maple syrup, and warm spices. Baked until golden and set, this dish is naturally sweetened and offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, with an optional crunchy topping of chopped nuts.
Ingredients
Bread Base
- 4 cups whole grain or day-old bread, cubed
Custard Mixture
- 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 Topping
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the bread pudding.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Bread Cubes: Spread the cubed whole grain or day-old bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix Custard Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, milk, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is coated thoroughly.
- Soak the Bread: Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard mixture and let it sit for 10 minutes to fully soak.
- Add Nuts: If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Optionally, drizzle with extra maple syrup, add a dollop of Greek yogurt, or dust with additional cinnamon to enhance the flavor.
Notes
- Use whole grain or day-old bread for best texture and absorption.
- You can substitute dairy milk with non-dairy alternatives such as almond or oat milk.
- For added crunch, nuts are optional but highly recommended.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
- This recipe can be customized with additional spices like nutmeg or cardamom for more warmth.
