Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe
Experience the warmth of a timeless dessert with this Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding recipe. Combining simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions. With its golden crust and rich, custardy interior, this bread pudding is a delightful treat that can be served warm or chilled. Letโs dive into the details!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Brown Bread | 5 cups, diced into bite-sized pieces |
| Whole Eggs | 4 |
| Caster Sugar | 1 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Butter (melted and cooled) | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Rum or Brandy (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Walnuts (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Apples (chopped) | 2 |
| Mixed Dry Fruits (e.g., raisins) | As desired |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fats | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 20 g |
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands used.)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
Servings
- Serves 6
Cuisine
- Continental
Course
- Dessert
Diet
- Eggetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 150ยฐC (300ยฐF) and position the rack in the center.
- Grease a 10 x 10-inch square baking dish generously with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Arrange the Bread and Toppings
- Place the diced bread cubes evenly in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle chopped apples, walnuts, and your choice of mixed dry fruits (like raisins) over the bread cubes, ensuring an even distribution.
Step 3: Make the Custard
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and caster sugar on high speed until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, melted butter, and milk (or cream if desired) to the mixture. Whisk until fully combined and smooth.
- If using, stir in a tablespoon of rum or brandy for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Pudding
- Pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the dish.
- Gently press down the bread cubes with a fork to ensure they soak up the custard completely, filling all the nooks and crevices.
Step 5: Prepare the Water Bath
- Place the baking dish with the pudding mixture inside a larger roasting pan.
- Pour hot water into the roasting pan, ensuring it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath helps the pudding cook evenly and prevents drying out.
Step 6: Bake the Bread Pudding
- Transfer the setup to the oven and bake for about 45 minutes.
- To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the pudding. If it comes out clean, the pudding is ready.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Serve warm for a cozy dessert experience or refrigerate and enjoy chilled later.
Serving Suggestions
This Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Itโs also perfect as a standalone dessert during colder months.
For a delightful meal combination, serve this pudding after a hearty main course like:
Tips for Success
- For a richer flavor, use cream instead of milk.
- Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard more effectively.
- Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or dried cranberries.
This Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is more than a dessertโitโs a nostalgic embrace that brings joy to every bite. Whether served warm on a winter evening or cold on a sunny day, itโs bound to impress your family and guests alike. Enjoy creating this culinary masterpiece, and share the love with every serving!
