Creating the perfect Bananas Foster Bread Pudding involves a few simple steps. Follow these instructions for a delightful dessert:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed stale bread in a large mixing bowl. Set aside to allow it to dry out slightly.
3. Mix the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently fold in the sliced bananas until evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to soak for about 15 minutes.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the soaked bread and banana mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Make the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar together. Stir until the mixture is smooth and bubbling.
7. Add Rum: If using, carefully add the rum to the caramel sauce, stirring continuously. Allow it to simmer for another minute. Remove from heat.
8. Drizzle Sauce: Pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over the bread pudding mixture in the baking dish.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and set in the center.
10. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes before serving.

By following these simple steps, you’ll create a delicious Bananas Foster Bread Pudding that is sure to impress!