Wow, this is amazing! I can hardly believe it's made with just a few ingredients!

There's something incredibly comforting about the combination of warm caramel and bananas, especially as the weather starts to cool down here in the Midwest. This slow cooker caramel banana bread pudding is a dessert that brings back memories of cozy evenings spent with family. It's perfect for those busy days when you want a treat but don't have time to stand by the oven. Simply toss the ingredients together in the slow cooker and let the magic happen! Whether you're a busy professional like me or just love a good homemade dessert, this recipe is a must-try.

This caramel banana bread pudding is delightful on its own, but for an extra touch of indulgence, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a bit of contrast, a handful of toasted pecans adds a nice crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the flavors even more.

Servings: 6 servings

4 cups cubed day-old bread (preferably challah or brioche)
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup caramel sauce
3 cups whole milk
3 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray.

Place the cubed bread and sliced bananas into the slow cooker, mixing them gently to combine.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the caramel sauce, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Pour the mixture over the bread and bananas in the slow cooker, pressing down lightly to ensure everything is well soaked.

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.

Once done, serve warm with additional caramel sauce drizzled on top and extra banana slices if desired.

For a chocolatey twist, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the bread mixture before cooking. If you prefer a nutty flavor, try adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. For a richer custard, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. You can also experiment with other fruits like apples or pears for a different take on the classic banana flavor. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider using a sugar substitute and sugar-free caramel sauce.