📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. You should have about 8 cups of cubed bread. Slightly stale bread works best, as it will soak up the custard better.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, melted butter, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Ensure the peanut butter is fully incorporated for a smooth custard.
4. Add the cubed bread and sliced bananas to the mixing bowl with the custard. Gently toss everything together until the bread is evenly coated. Don't overmix, as you want the bread to retain some texture.
5. Pour the bread and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
6. If desired, sprinkle the top of the bread pudding with chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture. Trust me, it's worth it!
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps to prevent the top from browning too quickly and ensures the bread pudding cooks evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown and set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. A knife inserted into the center should come out with some moist crumbs attached.
9. Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to set further and makes it easier to slice.
10. Serve warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired. Enjoy this decadent and comforting treat!