This classic bread and butter pudding is a delightful dessert that combines layers of buttered bread with a creamy custard. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for a cozy evening.
The recipe is designed for two servings, making it ideal for a small treat or a romantic dinner. You can easily customize it with your favorite dried fruits or spices.
Overview of Bread and Butter Pudding
This delightful dessert has a rich history, often associated with comfort and nostalgia. Bread and butter pudding is a classic British dish that transforms simple ingredients into a warm and inviting treat.
Traditionally made with leftover bread, this pudding showcases the beauty of resourcefulness in cooking. The combination of buttered bread, creamy custard, and a hint of sweetness makes it a beloved choice for many.
Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a sweet ending to a meal, this dish brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of bread and butter pudding lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare.
Stale bread, preferably white or brioche, serves as the foundation. Butter adds richness, while raisins introduce a touch of sweetness and texture.
The custard, made from eggs, milk, and sugar, binds everything together, creating a creamy layer that complements the bread perfectly.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this pudding is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Start by preheating your oven, ensuring it reaches the right temperature for baking.
Next, butter the slices of bread generously, cut them, and layer them in a baking dish. The layering process is crucial, as it allows the custard to soak into the bread evenly.
Whisk together the custard ingredients, pour them over the bread, and let it sit for a short while. This step allows the bread to absorb the flavors fully.
Baking to Perfection
Baking is where the magic happens. As the pudding cooks, the top becomes golden and slightly crisp, while the inside remains soft and creamy.
Keep an eye on the pudding as it bakes, ensuring it reaches that perfect golden hue. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is simply irresistible.
Once done, allow it to cool slightly before serving. This brief cooling period helps the custard set a bit more, making it easier to slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this pudding is an experience in itself. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while a few scattered raisins on top enhance its visual appeal.
Pair it with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. The contrast of temperatures and textures elevates the dish, making each bite a delight.
Consider presenting it on a rustic wooden table, adding to the cozy atmosphere that this dessert embodies.
Customizations and Variations
One of the joys of bread and butter pudding is its versatility. While the classic version is delightful, feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients.
Incorporating spices like nutmeg or cinnamon can add warmth, while different dried fruits can introduce new flavors.
For a twist, consider adding chocolate chips or a splash of liqueur to the custard for a more adult version. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own.
Easy Bread and Butter Pudding Recipe
This bread and butter pudding features slices of buttered bread layered with raisins and soaked in a rich custard made from eggs, milk, and sugar. The dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of stale bread (white or brioche)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons raisins or sultanas
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter the slices of bread on one side and cut them in half diagonally.
- Layer the Bread: Place half of the bread slices in a small baking dish, buttered side up. Sprinkle half of the raisins over the bread, then layer the remaining bread and raisins on top.
- Make the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and nutmeg or cinnamon if using.
- Combine: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 40g