This Best Ever Bread Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, with rich custard and a perfect balance of sweetness. The bread soaks up the creamy mixture, resulting in a soft, melt-in-your-mouth treat with every bite. The optional raisins and nuts add a delightful texture, but feel free to skip them for a simple, classic version.
This dessert is an ideal choice for family gatherings, holiday meals, or whenever you’re in the mood for something comforting and indulgent. Serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the flavor. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will make any occasion extra special.
Full Recipe:
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6 cups cubed day-old bread (preferably brioche or challah)
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup packed brown sugar
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3 large eggs
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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Pinch of salt
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1 cup raisins (optional)
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
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Butter for greasing the baking dish
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
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Add the cubed bread to the milk mixture and stir to ensure the bread is fully soaked. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
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If desired, fold in raisins and nuts.
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Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the pudding cool for 10 minutes before serving. Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce or whipped cream if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Introduction to Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time, passed down through generations and enjoyed by countless people across different cultures. This simple yet comforting dish is made by combining day-old bread with milk, sugar, eggs, and spices, then baking it into a rich, custardy dessert. It’s a perfect example of how humble ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary, making it a popular choice for home bakers and professional chefs alike. Whether you’re enjoying it as a family treat, a holiday indulgence, or a sweet comfort food after a meal, bread pudding never fails to satisfy.
The History and Origins of Bread Pudding
Bread pudding has a long and fascinating history. Its roots can be traced back to the Middle Ages, where it was known as “poor man’s pudding.” In times when bread was a staple in every household, leftover or stale bread was often repurposed to avoid wasting food. Combining it with milk and eggs, along with whatever spices or dried fruits were available, allowed for a delicious and filling dessert or meal.
The origins of bread pudding can be found in many different cultures, with slight variations depending on regional ingredients and preferences. In Europe, particularly in England, bread pudding has long been a comfort food. It was considered an efficient way to utilize leftover bread, and it quickly became a staple dessert in homes and inns. In the United States, the dish evolved further, incorporating American favorites like raisins, cinnamon, and even whiskey. Each variation of bread pudding tells a story of cultural adaptation and creativity in the kitchen.
Why Bread Pudding is So Loved
Bread pudding’s charm lies in its versatility and the fact that it can be made with almost any type of bread. Whether you use brioche, challah, or a simple white loaf, each type of bread brings its own unique texture and flavor to the dish. The custard-like filling that binds the bread together adds richness and depth to every bite, while the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the flavors to another level.
What makes bread pudding even more irresistible is its ability to be customized. You can add your favorite fruits, like raisins, currants, or dried apricots, to give it a natural sweetness and chew. For those who enjoy a nutty crunch, adding walnuts, pecans, or almonds gives the dessert extra texture and flavor. For a luxurious twist, you can drizzle caramel sauce or top it with whipped cream to further enhance its indulgence.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the reasons bread pudding remains such a popular dessert is its adaptability. It can be served warm or cold, making it ideal for any season. In colder months, nothing beats a warm bowl of bread pudding straight from the oven, topped with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. In the summer, you can serve it chilled with fresh berries for a lighter, refreshing version of the dish.
Bread pudding also works wonderfully for various occasions. It’s a fantastic dessert to bring to family gatherings, holiday meals, and potlucks. It’s easy to make in large batches, ensuring that everyone gets a serving. Additionally, it makes an excellent breakfast or brunch option, especially when paired with a cup of coffee or tea. For those hosting a casual dinner party, serving bread pudding as a dessert is sure to impress your guests.
Bread Pudding Variations
While the traditional bread pudding recipe calls for basic ingredients like bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and spices, there are endless variations to explore. Some people like to add a splash of vanilla extract or orange zest for extra flavor, while others might experiment with chocolate chips or chunks of fresh fruit. In some regions, bread pudding is made with a boozy twist, incorporating bourbon, rum, or brandy for a rich and indulgent flavor.
Another popular variation is the addition of a crunchy topping. Some bakers sprinkle a layer of brown sugar or streusel on top of the pudding before baking, creating a delicious caramelized crust. For a more decadent version, you could also make a bread pudding with custard sauce or a sweet glaze that is poured over the top once it’s out of the oven.
Tips for the Best Ever Bread Pudding
To make the best-ever bread pudding, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to use day-old bread. Fresh bread will not soak up the custard mixture as well, so it’s important to allow the bread to sit out for a few hours or even overnight before using it. If you’re in a pinch, you can also toast the bread lightly to help it dry out.
Another important tip is to let the bread mixture sit for at least 15 minutes before baking. This allows the bread to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in a more cohesive pudding. For an even richer texture, consider using a combination of whole milk and heavy cream. The cream will add extra richness and smoothness to the custard.
If you’re adding raisins or other dried fruits, be sure to soak them in warm water or alcohol (like rum or bourbon) before mixing them into the bread pudding. This will help rehydrate the fruits and prevent them from becoming too hard when baked.
Serving and Storing Bread Pudding
Once the bread pudding is baked to perfection, it’s time to serve it! Bread pudding is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature or cold. If you’re serving it for breakfast or brunch, it’s delightful on its own or topped with a drizzle of maple syrup. For dessert, it pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a generous pour of caramel sauce.
If you have leftovers, bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven for a few minutes to warm it through. You can also freeze bread pudding for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the oven.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Bread pudding is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with elegance, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. Its warm, comforting nature makes it a crowd-pleaser, while its versatility allows for endless variations and customizations to suit your tastes. Whether you’re craving something sweet for breakfast, looking for a hearty dessert to bring to a gathering, or simply wanting to treat yourself to a delicious homemade dessert, bread pudding is always a great choice.
The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dessert that is rich, indulgent, and comforting. By adding your own personal twist with fruits, nuts, or spices, you can make it truly your own. So, gather your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing this Best Ever Bread Pudding with friends and family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bread pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a comforting tradition that has stood the test of time. With its rich history, delightful flavors, and endless customization options, it’s no wonder why it continues to be loved by so many. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe for Best Ever Bread Pudding is one you’ll want to make again and again. So why not try it today? You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so extraordinary.