Craving a warm, comforting dessert? This bread pudding recipe is your answer! With a rich custard base and the ability to customize with your favorite flavors, it’s the perfect way to use up stale bread. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with caramel sauce, each bite is a nostalgic journey back to cozy family gatherings. Let’s dive into the details of making this delightful treat.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of cubed bread (preferably stale)
- 2 cups of milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of butter (for greasing)
- Caramel sauce for serving (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately 250 calories, 5g of protein, 10g of fat, 38g of carbohydrates, and 4g of fiber. This is based on traditional ingredients and may vary with substitutions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the cubed bread to the mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- If using, fold in the raisins gently.
- Pour the bread mixture into the greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, try using different types of bread like brioche or croissants to enhance flavor and texture. Feel free to add spices like nutmeg for extra warmth.
Serving and Pairings
Serve your warm bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using fresh bread can make the pudding soggy; stale bread works best.
- Not allowing the bread to soak long enough results in uneven texture.
- Overbaking can lead to a dry pudding; watch the time closely.
- Skipping the butter greasing can cause sticking.
- Not whisking the egg mixture thoroughly may leave chunks of egg.
Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum.
- Mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
- Use a combination of bread types for a unique taste.
- Let the pudding sit for a few minutes before serving for better slicing.
FAQs
Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh the next day for the best texture.
What type of bread is best for bread pudding?
Stale bread works best, but you can use any type, including challah, brioche, or even day-old bagels for a unique twist.
Can I add fruit to the bread pudding?
Absolutely! Fresh or dried fruits like apples, berries, or bananas can be mixed in for added flavor and nutrition.
Is bread pudding served hot or cold?
Bread pudding is typically served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold, especially when chilled in the fridge.
How do I know when my bread pudding is done?
The pudding should be golden brown on top and set in the middle. A knife inserted should come out clean when it’s fully baked.
Conclusion
This bread pudding recipe is a delightful way to turn leftovers into an indulgent dessert. With its comforting flavors and endless variations, you can make it your own. Whether you enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Bread Pudding
Ingredients
- 4 cups of cubed bread
- 2 cups of milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of raisins optional
- 2 tablespoons of butter for greasing
- Caramel sauce for serving optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the cubed bread to the mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- If using, fold in the raisins gently.
- Pour the bread mixture into the greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.