Jamie Oliver Banana Bread And Butter Pudding Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread and Butter Pudding is a delicious twist on a classic British dessert. Imagine the traditional bread and butter pudding but with a fun, sweet update-banana bread takes center stage. It’s comforting, indulgent and packed with flavor.

The concept is simple. You layer slices of banana bread (instead of regular bread) with butter, then bake them in a custard mixture until golden and gooey. The banana bread adds an extra sweetness and depth while the custard gives it that perfect creamy texture. There’s something about the combination of the slightly caramelized top and soft inside that makes each bite feel like a hug. It’s like a warm dessert that mixes all the goodness of banana bread with the charm of a pudding.

Jamie Oliver Banana Bread And Butter Pudding Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s version, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

1. Banana Bread – This is the heart of the dish. You can use store-bought or homemade. It should be sliced thick and slightly stale for the best texture.
2. Butter – For spreading on the banana bread slices. Go for a good-quality butter for richness.
3. Milk – Whole milk is best here to give the custard a creamy consistency.
4. Cream – A little extra indulgence. This helps thicken the custard and adds richness.
5. Eggs – You’ll need eggs to create the custard base. They make everything nice and smooth.
6. Sugar – A touch of sweetness and it helps to caramelize the top when baked.
7. Vanilla Extract – For added flavor depth.
8. Bananas – Sliced bananas are layered in between the bread. Their natural sweetness complements the dish perfectly.
9. Cinnamon or Nutmeg (optional). Adds a little extra warmth and spice to the flavor.

The beauty of this pudding is that the ingredients are simple and easy to find. If you’re in the mood for something comforting yet special, these basic ingredients create magic.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a lot of fancy tools to whip up this dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Baking Dish – A medium-sized ovenproof dish is perfect. You want enough space to layer everything comfortably.
2. Mixing Bowl – For whisking the eggs, sugar, milk, cream and vanilla into the custard.
3. Knife – To slice your banana bread and bananas.
4. Whisk – For getting that custard nice and smooth.
5. Spoon or Spatula – To spread the butter on the banana bread slices and layer everything together.
6. Oven – To bake it all into perfection.

That’s pretty much it! A simple setup that makes the process easy.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread And Butter Pudding

Making Jamie’s Banana Bread and Butter Pudding is straightforward but the magic comes in the layering. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Preheat your oven to about 180°C (350°F), so it’s nice and hot by the time your pudding is ready.
2. Butter the banana bread. Take slices of your banana bread and spread a thin layer of butter on each side. This helps it toast up beautifully during baking and adds richness.
3. Layer the banana bread in the baking dish. Arrange the buttered banana bread slices in your dish, slightly overlapping them.
4. Add sliced bananas – Sprinkle the banana slices over the bread. They should nestle in between the layers of banana bread, adding extra texture and flavor.
5. Make the custard – In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, milk and cream. Pour this custard mixture over the banana bread and bananas. Be sure it’s all soaked through but not drowning.
6. Optional spice – If you like, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top to add a warm, comforting fragrance as it bakes.
7. Bake – Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the middle.
8. Serve – Let it cool slightly before serving but it’s best enjoyed warm. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread and Butter Pudding taught me a few things about balancing textures and flavors. First, the banana bread you use is crucial. A moist, slightly overripe loaf works best. it soaks up the custard without falling apart. The custard is where the magic happens. If you don’t whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly, you risk having a scrambled texture which isn’t ideal.

Also, the banana slices make a big difference in flavor. They add a natural sweetness and softness, so don’t skip this step. I also learned that it’s easy to take the traditional recipe and make it your own by playing with spices like cinnamon or even a little brown sugar for extra richness. The pudding becomes something more than just a dessert; it feels like a cozy, nostalgic treat that everyone can enjoy.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread And Butter Pudding

Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread and Butter Pudding is already a crowd-pleaser but sometimes it’s fun to switch things up and add your personal twist to the recipe. Here are a few tweaks to elevate the dish:

1. Banana Variety: While the recipe calls for ripe bananas, try mixing things up with different varieties. A mix of Cavendish bananas (the typical variety) and red bananas can add subtle flavor differences. Red bananas bring a creamier texture and a hint of berry sweetness which could complement the richness of the bread and butter pudding perfectly.
2. Nutty Twist: Adding a handful of crushed nuts to the mix can give the pudding an extra layer of texture. Walnuts, pecans or even macadamia nuts can work wonders. Toast them lightly before adding them to the pudding to bring out their natural oils and flavors.
3. Chocolate: If you’re a fan of chocolate, why not stir in a little cocoa or dark chocolate chips? A swirl of melted dark chocolate over the top can take this pudding from comforting to indulgent. Chocolate and banana are a winning combo and the bitterness of dark chocolate contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the bananas.
4. Spices and Herbs: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm, spiced aroma that will take the pudding up a notch. You can even add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. If you want something even more unexpected, a few finely chopped fresh mint leaves would add a refreshing, zesty finish.
5. Vegan or Dairy-Free Options: To make the pudding suitable for those with dietary restrictions, you can swap butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread. Instead of regular milk, use almond, oat or coconut milk. For the eggs, a flax egg or aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) can be a perfect substitute.
6. Add a Little Booze: For a grown-up twist, try soaking the bread slices in a little bit of rum or dark spiced rum before layering them. You can also add a splash of whiskey or brandy to the custard mixture for an added kick of flavor.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

As much as we’d love to finish the whole dish in one go, sometimes there are leftovers. No worries, though – Banana Bread and Butter Pudding holds up surprisingly well if stored properly.

1. Cool Before Storing: Let the pudding cool completely before storing it. Placing hot food straight into the fridge can create condensation which may lead to sogginess. You want to preserve the texture and avoid the bread turning too mushy.
2. Cover and Store: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to prevent the pudding from drying out. It’s best to keep it in the fridge if you’re not planning to finish it within a day or two. The pudding should last about 2-3 days in the fridge.
3. Freezing Tips: For longer storage, you can freeze it. Slice the pudding into individual portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat it, defrost it in the fridge overnight, then reheat it in the oven to get that lovely crispy top again.
4. Reheating: To reheat, you can pop it in the oven at around 160°C (320°F) for 15-20 minutes until it’s warmed through and the top gets a little crisp again. If you’re in a rush, a microwave works too but it may not get the top as crispy.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread And Butter Pudding?

This dessert is already rich and indulgent but pairing it with the right sides can make it a real standout treat.

1. Ice Cream: You can’t go wrong with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The cold, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, soft pudding. If you’re feeling adventurous, try salted caramel ice cream or a cinnamon swirl to enhance the flavors.
2. Custard or Cream: A classic pairing is warm custard and you can make a simple one at home with eggs, sugar and milk. Alternatively, whipped cream or even crème fraîche adds a delightful richness to the pudding.
3. Berries or Fresh Fruit: For a bit of freshness to cut through the sweetness, fresh berries (like raspberries or strawberries) can provide a zesty contrast. You can even toss them with a little lemon juice and sugar to make a quick fruit compote.
4. Caramel Sauce or Chocolate Ganache: If you really want to go all out, a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce or chocolate ganache over the top will intensify the flavors and bring an elegant touch to the dish.
5. Coffee or Dessert Wine: For a beverage pairing, a strong coffee or an espresso can balance out the pudding’s sweetness. Alternatively, a glass of dessert wine, like a sweet Riesling or even a nice port, can complement the richness without overwhelming it.

FAQs

Can I Use Any Type Of Bread For Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread And Butter Pudding?

Yes, you can use any bread you like, but a good, thick sliced white or wholemeal bread works best for soaking up the custard.

How Ripe Should The Bananas Be For Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread And Butter Pudding?

The bananas should be ripe, but not overripe. You want them sweet but still firm enough to hold their shape when baked.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread And Butter Pudding Ahead Of Time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance, just cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.