I remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread and Butter Pudding. It was during one of those cold, rainy evenings when I was looking for something comforting but different. I’d made the classic bread and butter pudding a hundred times, but when I saw Jamie’s twist with bananas, it felt like a fresh, fun approach to an old favorite. The pudding was rich, comforting, and just a bit adventurous-perfect for a cozy night in.
That experience stuck with me, and since then, I’ve shared the recipe with friends and family, who all loved it. If you’re looking to try a dessert that combines the warm, buttery richness of traditional bread and butter pudding with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, this recipe is for you.
Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread And Butter Pudding Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s version of bread and butter pudding is like a hug in a bowl. It’s not just any pudding; it has layers of banana, custard-soaked bread, and the perfect touch of sweetness that makes it irresistible.
The bananas bring a fresh flavor, while the bread soaks up the custard in the most comforting way. There’s a little crunch on top from the buttered bread, which balances out the softness of the inside. It’s a game-changer for dessert lovers who enjoy a mix of textures and bold flavors.
Ingredients Needed
- Bananas: 3 ripe bananas, sliced. Choose bananas with some spots, as they’ll give the pudding extra sweetness.
- Bread: 6 slices of white bread, crusts removed. You can use sourdough or brioche for extra richness.
- Butter: 50g butter, softened. You’ll spread this on the bread, so use a good, creamy butter.
- Eggs: 3 large eggs. They’ll create the rich custard base that binds everything together.
- Milk: 600ml whole milk. Full-fat milk works best for a creamy texture.
- Sugar: 100g caster sugar. This will add sweetness to the custard.
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp. For that comforting, familiar flavor.
- Cinnamon: ½ tsp. Optional, but it adds a nice spice note that complements the bananas.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread And Butter Pudding
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter a baking dish, about 20×25 cm in size.
Step 2: Take the bread slices and butter them generously on one side. Then, cut each slice into halves or quarters, depending on the size of your baking dish.
Step 3: Layer the bread in the baking dish. Start with a layer of bread, then top with a few slices of banana. Continue layering until you’ve used up all the bread and banana slices.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Pour this custard mixture over the bread and banana layers, making sure everything is soaked through.
Step 5: Press everything down gently with a spoon to ensure the bread is submerged in the custard.
Step 6: Bake in the oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
Step 7: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, but not too long. It’s best enjoyed warm, with the custard still silky inside.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
When baking, it’s crucial to understand how ingredients work together. Let’s break down some key components:
- Bread: Bread acts like a sponge when it comes into contact with the custard mixture. White bread, with its soft texture, soaks up the custard beautifully. Using thicker or richer breads like brioche makes the pudding even more indulgent.
- Eggs: Eggs are the backbone of the custard. They provide structure and create that silky, smooth texture once baked. They also help the bread absorb the custard while still holding its form.
- Bananas: Bananas add natural sweetness and moisture. Their sugar content helps caramelize during baking, giving the pudding a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Milk: Full-fat milk enhances the richness of the custard. It adds creaminess and helps bind all the ingredients together. You could substitute with plant-based milk, but the richness will change.
Understanding these ingredients and their role in the recipe helps ensure the perfect texture and flavor balance in every bite.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overload the Bananas: Bananas are sweet and soft, so too much can overwhelm the other ingredients. Just a few slices per layer will give enough flavor without drowning the dish in banana mush.
- Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread will absorb too much custard and turn soggy. Day-old bread has a firmer texture, which soaks up the custard just enough without disintegrating.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the pudding sit for a few minutes. This helps the custard settle and firm up. The flavors also get a chance to meld together.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle some brown sugar on top before baking. It’ll create a crunchy caramelized layer that adds a nice contrast to the softness of the pudding.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread and Butter Pudding: Add a handful of dark chocolate chips to the layers for a decadent twist.
- Nutty Banana Pudding: Sprinkle some chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) between the layers to add texture and a nutty flavor.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Boozy Banana Pudding: For a grown-up twist, add a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard mixture. It’ll add depth and a warming note to the flavor.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread and Butter Pudding is the perfect balance of nostalgia and creativity. It’s easy to make, comforting, and versatile, allowing you to customize it however you like. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress.
FAQs
Can I Use Regular Bread Instead Of Banana Bread For Jamie Oliver’s Pudding?
You can, but using banana bread will give it that rich, fruity flavor that makes this recipe special.
How Ripe Should The Bananas Be For The Pudding?
The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the pudding will be.
Can I Make This Pudding Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it the day before and bake it right before serving.