Ah, bread and butter pudding! This classic British dessert has been warming hearts and bellies for centuries, and let me tell you, it’s truly a hug in a dish. Originating as a clever way to use up stale bread, it’s transformed into a comforting favorite that I just can’t resist. I remember the first time I made it—it was a rainy afternoon, and the smell of the buttery, custardy goodness wafting through my kitchen made me feel all cozy inside. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, yet it feels like a special treat every time. Trust me, once you try this delightful pudding, you’ll want to make it a regular in your dessert rotation! It’s the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and nostalgic that just brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of stale bread, cut into triangles
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened (don’t be shy with this—more butter equals more flavor!)
- 2 cups milk (whole milk makes it extra creamy, but you can use what you have)
- 1/2 cup sugar (this adds just the right amount of sweetness)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature works best for mixing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (the secret ingredient that makes everything better!)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for that warm, cozy spice kick)
How to Prepare *Bread and Butter Pudding*
Making bread and butter pudding is as easy as pie—err, pudding! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that lovely golden top! While that’s heating up, grab your butter and generously spread it on both sides of each slice of bread. Trust me, the more butter, the better!
Next, cut those buttered slices into triangles and layer them in a baking dish. I like to overlap them a bit for that cozy feel, like they’re snuggling together! Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until it’s all combined and smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the bread, making sure every slice gets a good soak.
Now, it’s time to get baking! Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the pudding is set in the center and has that delightful golden color on top. Your kitchen will smell divine, and you’ll be ready to dig in as soon as it cools down a bit. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Step-by-step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter the bread slices on both sides.
- Cut the bread into triangles and layer in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the bread.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden on top.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a classic dessert that’s quick and easy to make—perfect for a busy weeknight!
- Every bite is bursting with flavor, thanks to the buttery bread and rich custard.
- It’s a comforting treat that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for chilly days.
- You can whip it up with just a few simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite add-ins like raisins or chocolate chips!
Tips for Success
Want to make your bread and butter pudding truly unforgettable? I’ve got some great tips to help you nail it every time! First off, definitely use day-old bread. It’s drier and soaks up the custard beautifully, giving you that perfect texture. Fresh bread can get too mushy, and we want that delightful contrast between the creamy custard and the soft, buttery bread.
Also, don’t hesitate to get creative! Adding in raisins or chocolate chips can take your pudding to the next level. Just sprinkle them in between the layers of bread for bursts of sweetness that’ll surprise your taste buds. You could even try different spices like nutmeg or cardamom if you’re feeling adventurous!
Another little secret? Letting the pudding sit for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven before digging in helps it set up nicely. Plus, it’ll be easier to serve! And remember, a drizzle of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top doesn’t hurt either. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
Variations on *Bread and Butter Pudding*
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your bread and butter pudding! Let’s dive into some delicious variations that will keep things exciting every time you make it.
- Different Breads: While white bread is traditional, you can use other types like brioche or challah for a richer flavor. Even whole grain or sourdough can add a unique twist!
- Fruity Add-Ins: Toss in some chopped apples, pears, or berries for a fruity burst that pairs perfectly with the creamy custard. Just sprinkle them between the layers of bread.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with spices beyond cinnamon—try adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or even a splash of almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent chocolate bread and butter pudding. You can even swirl in some chocolate sauce before baking for extra indulgence!
- Nutty Delight: Add some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. They add texture and a lovely nutty flavor that complements the pudding.
- Custard Variations: For a richer custard, substitute some of the milk with cream or even flavored creamers. You could also try coconut milk for a tropical twist!
With these variations, you can create a different experience every time you make this classic dessert. So go ahead, get creative, and make it your own! You’ll be amazed at how a few simple tweaks can elevate this comforting dish to new heights.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious bread and butter pudding is super simple! If you find yourself with any leftovers—though I can’t imagine that happening—let it cool completely before you store it. This helps prevent that dreaded soggy texture!
Once cooled, cover the pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Pop it in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Trust me, it’s just as comforting the next day, and the flavors have even more time to meld together!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This helps it warm up a bit before reheating. You can then pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10–15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. You could also microwave it for about 30 seconds to a minute, but I recommend the oven for that lovely, crispy top!
And if you’re feeling indulgent, don’t forget to add a drizzle of cream or a scoop of ice cream on top when serving! It’s the perfect way to elevate those comforting flavors all over again.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to indulging in bread and butter pudding, it’s always good to know what you’re enjoying, right? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the ingredients I usually use, so your results may vary slightly depending on what you choose!
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 8g
So, whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dessert after dinner or a sweet treat with your afternoon tea, you can relish every comforting bite knowing what’s in it! Just remember, everything in moderation, right?
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
You can definitely use fresh bread, but I recommend sticking to day-old bread if you can. Fresh bread tends to be too soft and won’t soak up the custard as well, which can result in a mushy texture. Day-old bread has the perfect amount of dryness to absorb that rich custard goodness!
How do I make bread and butter pudding dairy-free?
No problem! You can substitute the regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk you prefer. Just make sure to choose a creamier option for the best results. You can also use dairy-free butter for that buttery flavor. It’ll still be delicious and comforting!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pudding a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, take it out, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, and then pop it in the oven. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert!
What can I add for extra flavor?
Oh, there are so many options! You can add raisins, chocolate chips, or even fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas. Spices are also a great way to amp up the flavor—try a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract for something special. Get creative and make it your own!
How do I store leftovers?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the pudding cool completely first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently to keep that lovely texture!
Bread and Butter Pudding: 7 Steps to Pure Comfort
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic dessert made with bread, butter, and a rich custard.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of stale bread
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter the bread slices on both sides.
- Cut the bread into triangles and layer in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Pour the mixture over the bread.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better texture.
- Add raisins or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: bread and butter pudding, dessert, custard, British dessert
