Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes everyday pantry staples, making it both economical and accessible.
- Versatile: Customize with additions like sultanas, raisins, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Comforting: The warm, custardy interior and crisp, buttery top provide a satisfying dessert experience.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of stale bread (preferably white or wholemeal)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sultanas or raisins (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Bread: Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Cut or tear the bread into chunks.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place half of the buttered bread pieces in a greased baking dish, buttered side up. Sprinkle half of the sultanas or raisins and half of the cinnamon (if using) over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread, sultanas, and cinnamon.
- Prepare the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Assemble: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Press down gently to submerge the bread.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the pudding for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of custard.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Additions: Incorporate sliced bananas, berries, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.
- Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the custard mixture for a warm, aromatic note.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans between the layers for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the custard for a chocolatey twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Serve with a dollop of cream or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
Stale bread is preferable as it absorbs the custard mixture better, resulting in a more custardy texture. If using fresh bread, lightly toast it to achieve a similar effect.
Can I make this pudding in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the pudding up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed when ready to serve.
Is it necessary to use sultanas or raisins?
No, they are optional. Feel free to omit them or substitute with other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dried apricots.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use other types of bread such as brioche, challah, or wholemeal bread. Each will impart a unique flavor and texture to the pudding.
How do I know when the pudding is done?
The pudding is done when the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You can insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the pudding is ready.
How can I make the pudding richer?
For a richer pudding, increase the amount of cream and reduce the milk accordingly. You can also add a tablespoon of melted butter to the custard mixture.
Can I make individual servings?
Yes, you can divide the pudding mixture into smaller ramekins and bake them individually. Adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the ramekins.
How can I enhance the flavor of the custard?
You can infuse the milk with vanilla beans or add citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute non-dairy milk like almond milk or coconut milk for the dairy milk, and coconut cream or soy cream for the heavy cream.
Conclusion
Bread and Butter Pudding is the ultimate comfort food, offering a nostalgic and satisfying dessert that’s both easy to make and delicious. With its rich custard filling and crispy top, it’s the perfect treat to serve for any occasion. Whether you’re using classic sultanas or experimenting with fresh fruits and spices, this pudding is highly customizable and sure to please everyone. Make it ahead, or enjoy it fresh from the oven—the choice is yours!
Bread and Butter Pudding
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bread and Butter Pudding is a comforting and indulgent dessert made by layering buttered bread with a rich custard, then baking it to perfection. With simple pantry ingredients and the option to add fruits, spices, or even chocolate, this dessert is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 6 slices stale bread (preferably white or wholemeal)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup sultanas or raisins (optional)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Bread
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice and cut or tear into chunks.
2️⃣ Arrange in Baking Dish
- Place half of the buttered bread pieces in a greased baking dish, buttered side up.
- Sprinkle with half of the sultanas (or raisins) and cinnamon (if using).
- Repeat with remaining bread, sultanas, and cinnamon.
3️⃣ Prepare the Custard
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
4️⃣ Assemble the Pudding
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each piece is soaked. Press down gently to submerge the bread.
5️⃣ Bake
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and custard is set.
6️⃣ Serve
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of ice cream or custard.
Notes
✅ Fruit Additions: Add bananas, berries, or other dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
✅ Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the custard mixture for a warm, aromatic flavor.
✅ Nuts: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans between layers for extra crunch.
✅ Chocolate Twist: Mix in chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
