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Old Fashioned Bread Pudding
There’s Nothing Like Old Fashioned Bread Pudding
Old fashioned bread pudding is one of those truly comforting desserts that evoke nostalgia with every bite. Whether you have stale French bread lying around or just want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something warm and sweet, this classic recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s the kind of dish that brings family together, a delightful ending to a cozy dinner, or a sweet indulgence on a chilly day. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, you’ll find it hard to resist serving this hearty dessert again and again.
Reasons You’ll Love Making It
What makes this bread pudding truly special is its comforting simplicity and versatility. It’s quick and budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or an easy family brunch. The recipe calls for ingredients that are often found in the pantry, so you won’t need to make a special trip to the store. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable—feel free to throw in some chocolate chips or seasonal fruit if the mood strikes.
“I made this bread pudding for my family last weekend, and they couldn’t stop raving about it! It’s so easy to whip up, yet the flavor is incredible. It’s now a staple in our dessert rotation!” – Happy Home Cook
Preparing Old Fashioned Bread Pudding
This classic dessert is not only easy to prepare but also requires just a few simple steps to bring it to life. You’ll combine the creamy custard with cubed bread, let it soak up all the flavors, and then bake it to perfection. It’s a straightforward process that results in a dish that feels indulgent and made with love. Here’s what you need to do.
Gather Your Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering bread pudding, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 cups French bread, cubed
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: raisins or nuts
Feel free to substitute whole milk for 2% or almond milk if you prefer a lighter option, and don’t hesitate to add dried fruit or nuts if the fancy strikes!
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Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed French bread to the custard mixture. Stir gently to make sure all the bread is coated. If you’re using raisins or nuts, fold them in carefully.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top turns a lovely golden brown.
- Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature!
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Bread Pudding
This bread pudding is fabulous on its own, but serving it with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates it to another level. You could also pair it with fresh berries to add a touch of tartness. For a traditional affair, a dollop of whipped cream is always a classic choice!
Keeping Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Fresh Longer
Storing leftover bread pudding is simple! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, you can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly! When reheating, use the oven or microwave for the best texture, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore moisture.
Tips and Tricks
For a perfectly baked bread pudding, here are a few expert tips:
- Let the bread soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking; this helps achieve a creamy texture.
- Use day-old bread or even leftover croissants for enhanced flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent excessive browning, then uncover it to allow the top to crisp up.
Flavor Variations
Why not get experimental? This recipe can be easily tweaked to accommodate different flavors and dietary needs. Consider adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist or incorporating orange zest for a refreshing citrus note. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a hint of nutmeg instead of cinnamon for a different aromatic profile!
Your Questions Answered
1. How long does bread pudding take to bake?
Typically, it takes about 45-55 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until set and golden.
2. Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! While French bread is traditional, challah, brioche, or even sourdough can be delicious alternatives.
3. Is bread pudding gluten-free?
You can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread, but be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
With this old fashioned bread pudding recipe in your arsenal, you’re set to impress at any gathering or simply enjoy a delightful dessert at home. Happy baking!
Print
Old Fashioned Bread Pudding
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic, comforting dessert made with stale French bread and a creamy custard, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups French bread, cubed
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: raisins or nuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed French bread to the custard mixture. Stir gently to ensure all the bread is coated. If using raisins or nuts, fold them in carefully.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, use day-old bread or leftover croissants. It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: bread pudding, dessert, comfort food, easy recipe, custard
