Papaya Banana Bread Pudding
A tropical-inspired bread pudding featuring ripe papaya and bananas, infused with cinnamon and maple syrup, perfect for a comforting dessert or brunch treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, evaporated skim milk, lightly beaten egg whites, apple juice concentrate, chopped papaya, sliced bananas, lemon juice, cinnamon, ground nutmeg, maple syrup, and vanilla.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into an 8 x 11 x 2-inch ovenproof glass baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40 minutes, or until set and lightly golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans. You can substitute almond milk for evaporated skim milk for a dairy-free version. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, increase the maple syrup or add a bit of brown sugar. Ensure the bread is stale for the best texture, and consider using multigrain bread for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, drizzled with additional maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for a delightful contrast. This dish pairs beautifully with Gingersnap Bars for a sweet finish. Consider a side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced kiwi, for a refreshing complement to the rich bread pudding.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Papaya Banana Bread Pudding contains roughly 450 calories, with 3g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen papaya instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen papaya; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the pudding. This prevents the mixture from becoming too watery and ensures a better texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this bread pudding gluten-free, substitute the whole wheat bread with a gluten-free bread option. Ensure all other ingredients, such as the maple syrup and apple juice concentrate, are also labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the baking dish right before baking. Allow for a few extra minutes of baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).