This 5-star bread pudding is a rich and comforting dessert that transforms stale bread into a delightful treat. With a creamy custard base and hints of vanilla and cinnamon, it’s perfect for any occasion.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be customized with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance the flavor.
Understanding Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a classic dessert that has stood the test of time, cherished for its comforting qualities and versatility.
This dish transforms leftover bread into a warm, custardy delight, making it a perfect choice for using up stale bread.
With a rich custard base and a hint of sweetness, bread pudding can be customized to suit various tastes, from traditional flavors to more adventurous combinations.
The Perfect Ingredients
The beauty of bread pudding lies in its simple yet effective ingredients.
Day-old bread serves as the foundation, soaking up the creamy custard mixture made from eggs, milk, and cream.
Adding vanilla extract and cinnamon enhances the flavor profile, while optional ingredients like chocolate chips or raisins can introduce delightful surprises in every bite.
Preparation Steps
Creating bread pudding is straightforward, making it an accessible dessert for both novice and experienced bakers.
Start by cubing the bread and letting it soak in the custard mixture, allowing the flavors to meld.
After a brief resting period, the mixture is poured into a baking dish and baked until golden brown, resulting in a beautifully set pudding with a soft interior.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, the bread pudding can be served warm, offering a delightful contrast to the cold scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts on top.
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while fresh berries provide a pop of color and freshness.
This combination not only enhances the visual appeal but also balances the richness of the pudding with a hint of tartness.
Why Bread Pudding is a Favorite
There’s something inherently comforting about a warm serving of bread pudding, making it a beloved dessert for many.
Its ability to evoke nostalgia, combined with its adaptability, ensures that it remains a staple in dessert menus.
Whether served at family gatherings or enjoyed as a cozy treat at home, bread pudding is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.
Tips for the Best Bread Pudding
To achieve the best results, consider using a variety of breads, such as brioche or challah, which can add depth to the flavor and texture.
Allowing the bread to soak long enough is key; this ensures every piece is infused with the custard mixture.
Experimenting with different spices or add-ins can also elevate the dish, making it uniquely yours.
Easy Bread Pudding Recipe
This bread pudding features cubes of bread soaked in a sweet custard mixture, baked until golden and set. It takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 8 people.
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
- Whipped cream or ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl. If desired, add raisins or chocolate chips.
- Make the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, gently folding to ensure all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 36g