What is the banana bread game?

The banana bread game is a lighthearted phrase many home bakers use to describe the race against ripening bananas. It's that moment when you realize your bananas have gone from just ripe to almost mushy—and you need to act fast. While banana bread is often the go-to solution, I like to think of bread and banana pudding as a delicious twist on that game. It’s faster, uses more common pantry items, and always delivers comfort. If you’ve played the game too many times, try our banana bread cookies for a fun change of pace.

What is gone bananas bread?

Gone bananas bread usually refers to banana bread made with an extra dose of ripe bananas—those nearly black, ultra-soft ones that give maximum flavor and moisture. While it's not a formal recipe, many versions lean into the deep banana taste with added spices, chocolate chips, or nuts. In fact, the intense flavor you get from overripe bananas makes bread and banana pudding even better. If you're curious about similar banana-forward recipes, take a peek at our popular chocolate banana cake recipe , which uses the same deeply ripe fruit to pack in flavor.

Can I make banana nut bread in a bread machine?

Yes, absolutely. Many bread machines have a quick bread setting designed for just this kind of loaf. To make a great banana nut bread recipe for bread machine , use very ripe bananas, chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), and follow your machine’s instructions for liquids and mixing. While the texture is more structured than a pudding, the flavor carries over beautifully. You might enjoy this if you love make-ahead options like our cheesy garlic butter chicken skillet —simple, reliable, and hands-off.

How can I make banana bread without butter?

To make banana bread without butter , just swap it with an equal amount of oil, mashed avocado, or even applesauce. In bread and banana pudding , butter isn’t essential at all. I often leave it out, especially when making a lighter or dairy-free version. Almond or oat milk works wonderfully as a substitute. Much like our butterless banana bread , you still get that tender, moist texture—just without the added fat.

Bread and Banana Pudding – 1 Classic Recipe You’ll Love

Name: Bread and Banana Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: English
Ingredients: 4 cups cubed day-old bread; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 eggs; 1¾ cups milk (or plant-based); ½ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp cinnamon; Pinch of salt

Bread and Banana Pudding: A Sweet Twist You’ll Love

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A warm, custardy bread and banana pudding that’s perfect for using up overripe bananas and stale bread. Cozy, easy, and family-friendly.

Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: English
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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4 cups cubed day-old bread
2 ripe bananas, mashed
2 eggs
1¾ cups milk (or plant-based)
½ cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
Combine bread cubes and mashed bananas in a bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour custard mixture over bread. Let soak for 10–15 minutes.
Transfer to baking dish and bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and set.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Add walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Great served warm or chilled the next day.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 275
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 140mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Find it online: https://collectiverecipes.com/bread-and-banana-pudding/