Naturally Sweet Holiday Dessert Recipes for a Guilt-Free Indulgence

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Banana Walnut Bread Pudding

This naturally sweetened bread pudding is a comforting dessert or breakfast option that’s wholesome and satisfying. Ripe bananas and almond milk create a velvety custard that soaks into hearty whole-grain bread, while crunchy walnuts add texture and depth. Perfect for a cozy treat, this refined sugar-free dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Ingredients (for 6-8 servings):

• 4 cups cubed whole-grain bread (slightly stale works best)
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.
2. In a blender, combine the bananas, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Place the cubed bread in the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the top. Pour the banana custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the custard.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 min. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 min., or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
5. Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, topped with a drizzle of almond milk, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.