This classic bread pudding recipe is perfect for large gatherings, serving up to 50 people. It combines stale bread with a rich custard mixture, resulting in a warm, comforting dessert that everyone will love.
The recipe is straightforward and can be easily adjusted with different flavorings or toppings, such as raisins, nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Setting the Scene for a Cozy Gathering
Picture a rustic wooden table adorned with a large tray of golden-brown bread pudding, inviting everyone to gather around. The warm, comforting aroma wafts through the air, creating a sense of togetherness.
With a few plates ready for serving, the atmosphere is perfect for sharing stories and laughter. This setting not only highlights the delicious dessert but also encourages a communal experience, making it ideal for family gatherings or festive occasions.
The Allure of Bread Pudding
This classic dessert is a delightful combination of stale bread transformed into a rich custard treat. The pudding features a creamy texture, enhanced by the addition of raisins and nuts, which add a satisfying crunch.
When baked to perfection, the top layer achieves a golden hue, while the inside remains soft and moist. This contrast in texture makes each bite a delightful experience, appealing to both the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients that Make a Difference
The beauty of this bread pudding lies in its simplicity. Using day-old bread ensures that nothing goes to waste, while the custard mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar creates a luscious base.
Optional ingredients like raisins and chopped nuts introduce additional flavors and textures, allowing for customization based on personal preferences. This versatility makes it a favorite among many, as it can be tailored to suit various tastes.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this bread pudding is straightforward, making it accessible for even novice bakers. Start by cutting the bread into cubes and soaking them in the creamy custard mixture.
Allowing the mixture to sit for a while ensures that the bread absorbs all the flavors, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture that everyone loves.
Baking to Perfection
Once the mixture has soaked, it’s time to bake. Preheating the oven and greasing the pans are essential steps to ensure even cooking and easy removal.
Baking until golden brown not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a delightful contrast between the crispy top and the soft interior. The result is a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
To elevate the experience, serve the bread pudding warm, dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by a side of warm caramel sauce. This addition brings an extra layer of sweetness that complements the rich custard beautifully.
Whether enjoyed plain or topped with whipped cream or ice cream, this dessert is sure to be a hit. It’s perfect for sharing, making it a wonderful centerpiece for any gathering.
Easy Bread Pudding Recipe for Large Groups
This bread pudding features cubes of bread soaked in a creamy custard made from eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla. It bakes to a golden brown and is best served warm, making it an ideal dessert for family gatherings or events.
Ingredients
- 12 loaves of day-old bread, cut into cubes
- 12 cups whole milk
- 12 large eggs
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups raisins or other dried fruit (optional)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Butter for greasing the baking pans
Instructions
- Prep the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Custard: In another large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked. If using, add raisins or nuts at this stage.
- Let it Soak: Allow the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease several large baking pans with butter.
- Bake: Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared pans and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed plain or topped with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Servings: 50 servings
- Calories: 250kcal per serving
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 40g