Traditional Bread Pudding

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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Bread pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, blending simplicity with rich flavors that warm the soul. This traditional version is perfect for using up day-old bread, transforming it into a custardy delight that's incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients for Traditional Bread Pudding

The backbone of this recipe is day-old bread, which absorbs the custard beautifully, giving the pudding its characteristic texture. Whole milk adds a creamy richness, while granulated sugar sweetens the deal. Eggs are crucial for setting the custard, making the pudding cohesive. The vanilla extract amplifies the dessert's aroma, and a touch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg provides a warm spice. A pinch of salt balances the flavors, while unsalted butter drizzled over the top adds a golden, crispy finish. Finally, raisins introduce a chewy texture and gentle sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a mix of bread types for more complex flavors and textures.
  • Ensure the bread is fully soaked by pressing it down into the custard and letting it sit for a few minutes before baking.
  • If your bread is too fresh, try toasting it lightly to dry it out.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this bread pudding with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luscious dessert. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add an extra touch of sweetness. For an adult twist, serve it with a glass of dessert wine like a sweet Riesling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, almond or oat milk can be great substitutes, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze bread pudding?
Absolutely! Wrap it well and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Traditional Bread Pudding Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take a moment to grease a 9x13 inch baking dish, ensuring your pudding won’t stick. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This mixture will become the custard that envelops your bread.

Next, evenly distribute the cubed day-old bread in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the raisins over the bread, making sure they're well-distributed so every bite has a bit of that chewy sweetness. Pour the milk mixture over the bread, taking care to press down gently with a spatula to help the bread soak up the custard.

Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the pudding. This will help create a delightful, crispy top layer once baked. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the pudding is set and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the custard to settle. Enjoy warm, possibly topped with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A classic dessert that's simple to make with pantry staples.
  • Perfect balance of sweetness with a hint of spice.
  • Great way to minimize food waste by using up stale bread.
  • Customizable with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.

Ingredients

8 cups of day-old bread, cubed
4 cups of whole milk
1 cup of granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon of salt
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup of raisins
Optional: whipped cream or ice cream for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Place the cubed bread in the prepared baking dish and sprinkle raisins over the top.
4. Pour the milk mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the bread gently to soak up the custard.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
6. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally with whipped cream or ice cream.

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