My Sister's Famous Bread Pudding

For all of our family get togethers, my sister has established a tradition. That tradition is Banana Chocolate Chunk Bread Pudding. It's simple, easy, moist, and delicious. I love it especially for the fact that it's not overloaded with sugar. Most desserts these days overkill the sweet factor but this one has it just right. 

Bread Pudding with Chocolate Chunks and Bananas

(adapted from Zov: Recipes and Favorites from the Heart)

Yields: Enough for 15 - 20

3 tbsn. unsalted butter

3 medium bananas, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch slices

2 cups heavy whipping cream

2 cups 2% milk

1 cup sugar

8 large eggs

1 tbsn. vanilla extract

6 oz. of coarsely chopped bittersweet chocolate

1 1/2 lbs. of coarsely chopped challah, hawaiian bread, or croissants 

powdered sugar, for dusting

Preheat oven to 350 F. Coat a 13x9x2 baking dish with 1 tbsn. butter. Melt the remaining 2 tbsn. of butter in a small skillet. Add the bananas and toss to coat. Using a fork, mash the bananas, set aside to cool. 

Whisk the cream, milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla in large bowl to blend. Fold in the mashed bananas and chocolate. Add the bread cubes and toss to coat. Let mixture stand for 25 minutes, tossing occasionally. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly. Bake until center is set and the top is golden brown, about 35 - 45 minutes. Let cool completely. Cut, sprinkle with the powdered sugar, serve, and enjoy!

* Also great with vanilla ice cream or vanilla sauce!