This Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding is a rich and comforting dessert made with wholesome ingredients. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and packed with bananas, it’s a healthier take on a classic bread pudding. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this dish is full of warm, cozy flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally Sweetened – Maple syrup and bananas provide natural sweetness without refined sugar.
- High-Protein Twist – Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess.
- Uses Day-Old Bread – A great way to reduce food waste!
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Versatile – Enjoy warm for breakfast or as a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 cups whole grain or day-old bread, cubed
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Bread
- Spread the cubed bread evenly in the greased baking dish.
3. Make the Custard Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, milk, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
4. Soak the Bread
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
5. Add the Toppings
- If using, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the top.
6. Bake
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
7. Cool and Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy warm, optionally drizzled with extra maple syrup or topped with Greek yogurt.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving
Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut yogurt and almond or oat milk.
- Extra Crunch: Add more nuts or pumpkin seeds on top.
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Stir in dark chocolate chips.
- Raisin or Cranberry Addition: Mix in ¼ cup dried fruit for extra sweetness.
- Spiced Up: Add nutmeg, cloves, or cardamom for a deeper flavor.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute or bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Yes, but slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better. If using fresh bread, toast it lightly first.
2. What’s the best type of bread to use?
Whole grain, sourdough, or brioche work great!
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pudding and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.
4. Can I reduce the maple syrup?
Yes, you can reduce to ⅓ cup for a less sweet version.
5. Can I use flavored Greek yogurt?
Yes! Vanilla or cinnamon Greek yogurt works beautifully.
6. How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
The center should be set but slightly jiggly and a toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
7. What can I serve with this bread pudding?
Try it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of yogurt.
8. Can I turn this into muffins?
Yes! Divide the mixture into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
9. Can I substitute honey for maple syrup?
Yes, but it will have a slightly different flavor.
10. Can I add protein powder?
Yes! Stir in 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder for an extra protein boost.
Conclusion
Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding is a wholesome, naturally sweetened, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this healthier take on classic bread pudding will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things nutritious. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, cozy bite!
Print
Greek Yogurt Banana Maple Bread Pudding
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich, comforting, and naturally sweetened dessert made with wholesome ingredients! This healthier twist on classic bread pudding combines Greek yogurt, ripe bananas, and maple syrup for a creamy, custardy texture with just the right amount of sweetness.
Ingredients
✅ 4 cups whole grain or day-old bread, cubed
✅ 2 ripe bananas, mashed
✅ 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
✅ ¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
✅ ½ cup maple syrup
✅ 2 large eggs
✅ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
✅ ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
✅ ¼ teaspoon salt
✅ ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Baking Dish & Bread
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Spread the cubed bread evenly in the baking dish.
2️⃣ Make the Custard Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Mashed bananas
- Greek yogurt
- Milk
- Maple syrup
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon & salt
- Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3️⃣ Combine & Soak
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure all pieces are coated.
- Gently press the bread down so it absorbs the liquid.
- Let sit for 10 minutes to soak.
4️⃣ Bake the Bread Pudding
- If using, sprinkle chopped nuts over the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Drizzle with extra maple syrup, top with Greek yogurt, or dust with cinnamon.
Notes
✅ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of fresh berries for extra freshness.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat!
✅ Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
✅ Freezing Instructions:
- Cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap & foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight & reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American