Banana Pudding Banana Bread

Description:

Banana Pudding Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, incorporating the creamy, sweet flavors of banana pudding. With layers of banana flavor, vanilla wafers, and a rich, moist texture, this bread is a perfect combination of a comforting dessert and a beloved treat. It’s a great way to use up ripe bananas and enjoy a unique, flavorful twist on banana bread.

Ingredients:

For the Banana Bread:

• Ripe bananas: 3 medium, mashed
• All-purpose flour: 2 cups
• Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
• Baking powder: ½ teaspoon
• Salt: ½ teaspoon
• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (optional, for added warmth)
• Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), softened
• Granulated sugar: ¾ cup
• Brown sugar: ¼ cup (light or dark)
• Eggs: 2 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: ¼ cup (for extra moisture)
• Vanilla pudding mix (instant, not prepared): 1 box (3.4 oz)
• Milk: 2 tablespoons (for the pudding mix)

For the Banana Pudding Layer:

• Vanilla wafers: 1 cup, crushed (plus extra for topping)
• Whipped cream or whipped topping: ½ cup (optional, for added richness)

Optional Ingredients:

• Chopped walnuts or pecans: ½ cup (for added texture and flavor)
• Chocolate chips: ½ cup (for a fun twist)

Tips for Success:

1. Bananas: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. The more speckled they are, the better!
2. Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in dense banana bread. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
3. Pudding mix: The instant vanilla pudding mix adds richness and moisture, enhancing the texture of the banana bread. Be sure to use the powder mix, not the prepared pudding.
4. Adding crushed wafers: Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers into the batter gently to avoid breaking them up too much. You want pieces of wafer for texture.

Steps to Make It:

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the Banana Bread Batter:

1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream or Greek yogurt.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
6. In a small bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the 2 tablespoons of milk until it’s well combined. Gently fold this pudding mixture into the banana bread batter.

3. Add the Vanilla Wafer Layer:

1. Gently fold the crushed vanilla wafers into the batter. You can reserve a few crushed wafers to sprinkle on top of the bread before baking.
2. (Optional) Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips if desired.

4. Bake the Banana Bread:

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Sprinkle any reserved crushed vanilla wafers on top for a decorative finish.
3. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
4. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Serve:

1. Once cooled, slice the Banana Pudding Banana Bread and serve.
2. For added creaminess, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping on top.

Recommendations:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve this banana bread with a glass of milk, or pair it with your favorite hot beverage for a delicious treat.

Nutrition (Per Slice, Approx. 12 servings):

• Calories: ~200
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 180mg

Banana Pudding Banana Bread is a delicious and moist twist on traditional banana bread, bringing together the comforting flavors of banana bread and banana pudding in one delectable treat!