Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding

Discover a rich, gooey Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding that’s perfect for cozy desserts and irresistible sweet cravings. This decadent treat combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and dates with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, all baked together in a warm skillet pudding that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming finish to dinner or a delightful weekend indulgence, this pudding brings together flavors and textures that beckon for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, natural sweetness: Ripe bananas and caramel-like dates create an irresistible base without needing refined sugars.
• Easy skillet method: All ingredients come together in a single skillet, cutting down on cleanup and enhancing flavor melding.
• Crunch meets gooey: Toasted pecans add a delightful texture contrast against the soft, sticky pudding.
• Versatile and customizable: This recipe invites variations to fit dietary needs or seasonal preferences effortlessly.
• Show-stopping presentation: Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, warm dessert experience that pleases every gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to this Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding’s irresistible charm. Each component contributes essential flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color that makes this dessert shine.

• Ripe bananas: Use well-matured bananas for maximum natural sweetness and creaminess in the pudding.
• Chopped dates: Soft, rich dates add caramel-like depth and stickiness that’s essential to the pudding’s signature texture.
• Toasted pecans: Fresh pecans toasted lightly bring a smoky crunch that contrasts perfectly with the pudding’s softness.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure to hold the pudding together while staying tender.
• Brown sugar: Adds warmth and enhances caramel notes without overpowering the fruit.
• Butter: Used both in the batter and for greasing the skillet, adding a luscious richness.
• Milk: Balances moisture, ensuring the pudding stays perfectly soft but not soggy.
• Baking powder: Gives the pudding a subtle rise and lightness for a pleasant texture.
• Vanilla extract: A splash infuses the dessert with sweet aromatic layers.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors and balances the natural sweetness.

Variations for Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding

This Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding is adaptable, making it easy to tailor to your pantry or dietary preferences while still delivering that cozy, indulgent feel.

• Nut-free option: Swap pecans for toasted pumpkin seeds or omit nuts altogether for allergy-sensitive diners.
• Vegan twist: Use almond milk or oat milk and substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Spiced up: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ground ginger to the batter for a spicy warmth that’s perfect during cooler months.
• Extra gooey: Stir in some chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips right before baking.
• Fruit swap: Replace bananas with mashed ripe pears or applesauce, and dates with raisins or chopped dried figs for different fruity profiles.

How to Make Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the skillet and toast pecans

Lightly grease a cast-iron skillet with butter and preheat your oven. Toast the pecans in the skillet for 5-7 minutes over medium heat until fragrant and slightly golden, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mash bananas and mix wet ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash ripe bananas until smooth but still slightly chunky. Add melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and stir until combined.

Step 3: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to ensure the pudding has a light, tender crumb.

Step 4: Incorporate dates and mix everything

Chop dates into small pieces and fold them into the dry ingredients. Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing for the best texture.

Step 5: Assemble and bake

Pour the batter into the buttered skillet and sprinkle the toasted pecans on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes or until the top turns golden and a tester comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool slightly and serve

Allow the pudding to cool for a few minutes in the skillet before serving warm. The edges will be crispy while the inside stays sticky and luscious.

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

• Banana ripeness is crucial: Choose bananas with dark spots for the richest flavor and natural sweetness.
• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: It unlocks their oils and boosts the crunch factor dramatically.
• Butter greasing helps crisp the edges: Use enough butter to coat the skillet for a perfect crust.
• Mix ingredients gently: Overmixing can lead to a dense pudding—stir just until combined.
• Serve warm, not hot: Letting it cool slightly helps the pudding set and enhances its sticky texture.

How to Serve Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding

Garnishes

Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm, sticky pudding with creamy coolness. Sprinkle extra chopped pecans and a drizzle of honey for added texture and shine.

Side Dishes

Pair this skillet pudding with a side of spiced tea or coffee to balance the richness, or serve alongside a fresh fruit compote for an extra fruity punch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pudding directly in the skillet for a rustic look or scoop portions into individual ramekins for elegant single servings that impress guests effortlessly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness and flavors.

Freezing

Wrap the pudding tightly in plastic wrap and foil to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the pudding gently in a microwave or oven at low heat until just heated through, avoiding overheating to keep that gooey texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work beautifully and provide a slightly different crunch and flavor profile to the pudding.

Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a gluten-free flour blend without xanthan gum for best results.

How ripe should the bananas be for this pudding?

Bananas should be very ripe, with plenty of brown spots. The riper the banana, the sweeter and richer the pudding will taste.

Can I prepare this pudding in advance?

Yes, you can mix all ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate the batter overnight. Just give it a gentle stir before baking.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Reheat gently and serve with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle of caramel sauce for a delightful treat the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Banana, Date & Pecan Skillet Pudding is a truly comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to make yet spectacular in flavor and texture. Whether you stick to the classic version or try your own creative adjustments, this pudding promises to become a cherished favorite in your dessert rotation. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this sticky, sweet skillet masterpiece—you won’t regret it!

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