This delightful bread pudding combines the comforting texture of stale bread with the bright flavor of orange zest. It’s a perfect dessert for using up leftover bread and is sure to impress your guests.
The recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it an accessible choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
Understanding the Comfort of Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a classic dessert that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
Its rich, custardy texture combined with the slight crispness of baked bread creates a delightful contrast.
This dish is particularly appealing during colder months, providing a cozy treat that feels like a warm hug.
The Brightness of Orange Zest
Incorporating orange zest into bread pudding adds a refreshing twist that elevates the dish.
The citrus notes brighten the overall flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience.
This infusion of orange zest not only enhances taste but also adds a lovely aroma that fills the kitchen while baking.
Perfect for Leftover Bread
One of the best aspects of bread pudding is its ability to repurpose stale bread.
Instead of discarding leftover bread, transform it into a delicious dessert that minimizes waste.
This recipe is an excellent way to utilize those odds and ends from your pantry while creating something special.
Creating the Ideal Custard Mixture
The custard base is the heart of this bread pudding.
A combination of eggs, milk, and cream creates a rich and creamy texture that envelops the bread cubes.
Whisking in sugar, vanilla, and spices like cinnamon infuses the custard with flavor, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Presentation Matters
Serving this bread pudding in a rustic dish adds to its charm.
A light dusting of powdered sugar on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a touch of sweetness.
Accompanying the pudding with fresh orange slices creates a vibrant presentation that invites guests to dig in.
Enjoying the Cozy Atmosphere
Pairing this dessert with a cozy setting enhances the overall experience.
Imagine enjoying a warm serving of orange zest bread pudding on a wooden table, surrounded by loved ones.
This comforting dessert is perfect for gatherings, providing a sweet ending to any meal.
Easy Orange Zest Bread Pudding Recipe
This bread pudding features cubes of bread soaked in a rich custard made with eggs, milk, sugar, and infused with fresh orange zest. The dish is baked until golden and served warm, making it a cozy dessert option.
Ingredients
- 6 cups stale bread, cubed
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
- Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
- Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed stale bread in the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, orange zest, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
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