Indulge in the comforting taste of bread pudding, a timeless dessert that transforms stale bread into a luscious treat. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether served warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or chilled with a scoop of ice cream, this bread pudding will surely delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of cubed stale bread
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice): Calories: 320, Total Fat: 15g, Saturated Fat: 8g, Cholesterol: 120mg, Sodium: 180mg, Carbohydrates: 42g, Dietary Fiber: 1g, Sugars: 20g, Protein: 6g. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the milk and heavy cream to the egg mixture and stir well.
- Fold in the cubed bread and raisins, if using, until the bread is well coated.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Pour the bread mixture into the greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until set and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or ice cream.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, use any type of bread you have on hand, such as brioche or sourdough, to add unique flavors.
Serving and Pairings
Bread pudding pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of yogurt for a delightful contrast.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using fresh bread instead of stale can lead to a soggy texture.
- Not letting the mixture sit to absorb the liquid can result in uneven cooking.
- Baking at too high of a temperature may burn the top without cooking the center.
- Overmixing the bread can break it down too much.
- Forgetting to grease the baking dish can cause sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for added flavor.
- Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
- Serve it warm for the best flavor experience.
- Top with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bread. Just let it thaw and dry out a bit before cubing it for the recipe.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and cream.
What types of bread work best for bread pudding?
Stale bread works best; brioche, challah, or even day-old bagels add great flavor.
Can I add fruits to bread pudding?
Absolutely! Fresh or dried fruits like apples, berries, or raisins can enhance the flavor and texture.
How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
It’s done when the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
Conclusion
This bread pudding recipe is a delightful way to turn leftover bread into a scrumptious dessert. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy each bite and share it with loved ones for a truly satisfying experience.
Bread Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups of cubed stale bread
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of raisins optional
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the milk and heavy cream to the egg mixture and stir well.
- Fold in the cubed bread and raisins, if using, until the bread is well coated.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Pour the bread mixture into the greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until set and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or ice cream.
