Introduction
Bread and Butter Pudding is a beloved classic British dessert that captures the essence of comfort food. With its layers of buttery bread soaked in a rich custard, this pudding is a warm, satisfying treat, perfect for chilly evenings. Often spiced with warming flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg, it evokes memories of home and family gatherings. This dish is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to use up stale bread, transforming it into something truly special.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
300 g stale bread (brioche or white bread), sliced
50 g unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
100 g granulated sugar
500 ml whole milk
200 ml heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
100 g raisins or sultanas
2 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Yield: 6 servings
Enjoy this delightful dessert warm, served with cream, custard, or a scoop of ice cream for an added indulgence!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish generously with softened unsalted butter to prevent the pudding from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Take the stale bread (preferably brioche or white bread) and spread butter on both sides of each slice. Cut the slices into triangles. Arrange the buttered bread pieces in the greased baking dish, slightly overlapping them for an even distribution.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, granulated sugar, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Add Raisins
Sprinkle the raisins or sultanas evenly over the arranged bread in the baking dish.
Step 5: Pour the Custard
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and raisins. Gently press the bread down with the back of a spoon to help it absorb the custard.
Step 6: Let it Soak
Allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes. This resting time enables the bread to fully absorb the custard.
Step 7: Add Topping
Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the top of the pudding mixture to create a caramelized crust during baking.
Step 8: Bake the Pudding
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and set in the center. Check for doneness by inserting a knife; it should come out clean.
Step 9: Serve
Once baked, remove the bread and butter pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, either on its own or accompanied by cream, custard, or ice cream.
Notes
Stale Bread
Using stale bread is essential as it absorbs the custard better, preventing a soggy texture. If using fresh bread, consider toasting it lightly to dry it out.
Variations
Feel free to add other dried fruits, such as chopped apricots or cranberries, along with the raisins for added flavor and texture.
Storage
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This pudding pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of cream, a scoop of custard, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Store any leftover bread and butter pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the pudding if you want to keep it longer. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm slices of bread and butter pudding with a drizzle of cream, a scoop of custard, or a generous helping of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or fresh berries. You can also top it with a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approx.):
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 8g
Please note that nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Ingredient Substitutions
- For the bread: You can use any stale bread such as croissants, challah, or even panettone for a different flavor profile.
- For the butter: Margarine can be used instead of unsalted butter if needed.
- For the granulated sugar: You can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a less refined option.
- For the milk: Any plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or soy milk, can be substituted for whole milk.
- For the heavy cream: Coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative can be used for a lighter or lactose-free option.
- For raisins: Swap raisins with chopped dried apricots, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips for a variation.
Cook techniques
1. Choosing the Right Bread
Select stale bread like brioche or white bread for the best texture. Stale bread absorbs the custard better than fresh bread.
2. Buttering the Bread
Generously spread softened unsalted butter on each slice of bread to add richness and flavor to the pudding.
3. Cutting the Bread
Cutting the bread into triangles allows for even layering and ensures that every piece soaks up the custard uniformly.
4. Making the Custard
Whisk the eggs, sugar, milk, cream, and spices until smooth. This creates a rich custard base that envelops the bread.
5. Soaking the Bread
After pouring the custard over the arranged bread, gently press down to ensure all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for 15 minutes for optimal absorption.
6. Topping for Caramelization
Sprinkling brown sugar on top before baking enhances the texture and flavor, creating a delightful caramelized crust.
7. Baking to Perfection
Bake the pudding at 180°C (350°F) until golden brown and set, ensuring the custard is fully cooked and the top is crispy.
8. Serving Suggestions
Serve the bread and butter pudding warm with cream, custard, or ice cream to complement its rich flavor.
FAQ
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
While fresh bread can be used, it won't absorb the custard as well as stale bread. Stale bread is preferred for the best texture.
What spices can I add to enhance flavor?
Feel free to experiment with additional spices such as cardamom or allspice to customize the flavor profile of your pudding.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pudding in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving for the best results.
Is it possible to make a vegan version?
Yes, you can substitute dairy and eggs with plant-based milk, cream, and a flaxseed or chia seed egg replacement.
Can I add other fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! You can add other dried fruits like currants or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving for the best taste.
Should the pudding be served warm or cold?
Bread and butter pudding is traditionally served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold if preferred.
Conclusion
Bread and Butter Pudding is a delightful and comforting dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. Its rich custard and buttery bread create a harmony of flavors, making it an enduring favorite among both young and old. Easy to prepare and perfect for using up stale bread, this classic British dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding
Incorporate chocolate spread or chocolate chips into the pudding for a decadent twist.
Citrus Zest Twist
Add grated lemon or orange zest to the custard mixture to bring a refreshing citrus flavor.
Apple and Cinnamon Variation
Layer sliced apples with the bread and substitute some sugar with brown sugar for added depth.
Pecan and Maple Syrup
Mix chopped pecans into the pudding and drizzle with maple syrup before serving for a nutty sweetness.
Spiced Pumpkin Bread Pudding
Use pumpkin puree in the custard mixture and add pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal treat.
Banana and Walnut Delight
Layer sliced bananas and chopped walnuts for a fruity, nutty version that packs a punch of flavor.
Berry and Cream Cheese Filling
Add a layer of cream cheese and fresh berries between the bread layers for a creamy, tangy contrast.
Leave a Reply