Directions

1.     Preheat oven to 350°F; spray an 8 or 9-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.

 

2.     Purée 3 extra ripe bananas in a blender (about 1½ cups). Transfer puréed bananas to medium bowl; whisk in milk and cocoa powder. Beat eggs, sugar, margarine, cinnamon and vanilla in large bowl; add puréed banana mixer and beat just until incorporated.

 

3.     Layer 3 cups bread cubes in prepared dish; top with sliced bananas and remaining 3 cups bread cubes. Pour milk mixture over cubes, making sure all bread is completely covered; let stand 30 minutes.

 

4.     Sprinkle with almonds. Place prepared dish in a larger pan; pour boiling water into larger pan to come halfway up side of square baking dish. Bake 55 minutes or until top is golden brown and center is set.

 

5.     Serve bread pudding garnished with dessert topping, if desired.