Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding

Get ready to delight your taste buds with the Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding, a warm, gooey treat that marries ripe bananas, sweet dates, and crunchy pecans in a cozy skillet dessert. This irresistible pudding offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it an ideal choice for any comfort food craving or special occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert or enjoying it as a decadent snack, this Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that come together effortlessly for a delicious result.
• Warm and Comforting: Perfectly cozy for chilly evenings or anytime you want a heartfelt dessert.
• Nutty Crunch: Pecans add a delightful texture contrast against the soft bananas and sticky dates.
• Natural Sweetness: Dates and bananas bring in rich, wholesome sweetness without the need for refined sugar.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a dessert, breakfast, or snack with endless customization options.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding comes together using simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect flavor, texture, and color that make this dessert so memorable.

• Ripe Bananas: Provide natural sweetness and moisture for softness.
• Chopped Dates: Offer a sticky, caramel-like richness that elevates the pudding.
• Pecans: Add crunchy texture and a rich nutty flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances sweetness and caramelization.
• Butter: Brings richness and helps create that golden crust.
• All-purpose Flour: Gives structure while keeping the pudding tender.
• Milk or Cream: Adds moisture and helps bind all the ingredients.
• Vanilla Extract: Lends warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
• Baking Powder: Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Sprinkles of warm spices to complement the fruity notes.

Variations for Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding

This recipe is wonderfully flexible and easy to adapt. Feel free to play around with different nuts, fruits, or even dietary needs to make it perfectly suited to your taste buds or lifestyle.

• Swap Nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch.
• Make it Vegan: Replace butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dark or milk chocolate for an indulgent twist.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with cardamom or ginger alongside or instead of cinnamon for unique warmth.
• Use Different Sweeteners: Honey or maple syrup can replace brown sugar for natural sweetness variations.

How to Make Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and slicing ripe bananas, chopping the dates and pecans, and preheating your oven. Gather all the other ingredients so everything is within reach.

Step 2: Make the Base Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter with brown sugar until smooth and slightly caramelized. Add the vanilla, milk or cream, and beaten eggs, stirring until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Mix

Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture to create a thick but pourable batter.

Step 4: Layer the Skillet

Butter your skillet and spread half the batter evenly. Distribute sliced bananas, chopped dates, and pecans on top, then pour the remaining batter over to cover the fruit and nuts.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35–40 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve Warm

Let the pudding cool for a few minutes in the skillet before serving. This pudding tastes best warm and gooey right out of the oven.

Pro Tips for Making Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding

• Use Overripe Bananas: For maximum sweetness and softness, choose bananas with brown spots.
• Chop Nuts Evenly: Ensures even baking and consistent texture throughout.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Fold gently to keep the pudding light and tender.
• Skillet Size Matters: Use a 9-inch cast-iron skillet or similar for best depth and crumb.
• Check Early: Start checking for doneness 5 minutes before the end to prevent overbaking.

How to Serve Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding

Garnishes

Top your warm skillet pudding with a dollop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to make it even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair this pudding with a cup of hot coffee, spiced chai tea, or a glass of creamy milk to complement its sweetness and richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly from the skillet for rustic charm, or portion into small ramekins for an elegant individual presentation that’s perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.

Freezing

You can freeze the pudding tightly wrapped or in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30–45 seconds to bring back that freshly baked gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use another type of fruit instead of bananas?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other soft fruits like pears, apples, or even peaches, though cooking times may vary slightly depending on the fruit’s moisture content.

Is Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding gluten-free?

Not as is, but you can substitute gluten-free flour blends for the all-purpose flour to make it gluten-free without sacrificing texture.

What is the best way to chop dates for this pudding?

Use a sharp knife to chop dates into small, even pieces so they distribute well and melt into the pudding during baking.

Can I prepare this pudding without a cast-iron skillet?

Yes, any oven-safe baking dish or skillet around 9 inches works fine, but cast-iron helps with even heat distribution and a golden crust.

How sweet is the Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding?

The natural sugars in bananas and dates provide a balanced sweetness, complemented by brown sugar, making it satisfyingly sweet but not overpowering.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious, this Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding is an absolute must-try. Its warm, gooey texture layered with sweet fruits and crunchy nuts is like a hug in a skillet. Give it a go and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved recipe to share with family and friends!

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