How to Make a Warm and Gooey Bread and Butter Pudding
On a chilly evening, there’s nothing quite like diving into a warm, gooey, and irresistibly delicious bread and butter pudding. This classic dessert is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a warm hug for your soul. The best part? It’s super easy to make, and you can even use up those slices of bread lying around in your kitchen. Here’s a simple guide on how to whip up this delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
- 10 slices of day-old bread (white or whole wheat, whatever you prefer)
- 1/4 cup (50g) butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100g) sultanas or raisins
- 2 cups (500ml) milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon powder
Optional for serving:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream
Step 1: Prep Your Bread
Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C). While waiting, butter the slices of bread on one side. You can remove the crusts if you prefer, but keeping them on adds a nice texture to the pudding. Once buttered, cut the slices into triangles or squares, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Layer It Up
In a deep baking dish (approximately 8 inches square), arrange a layer of the buttered bread pieces, buttered side up. Sprinkle a generous amount of sultanas or raisins, and then add another layer of bread, followed by more dried fruits. Keep going until all the bread and sultanas are used up.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered bread, making sure that all the pieces are soaked in the custard. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the bread can soak up all the goodness.
Step 4: Sprinkle and Bake
Before popping it into the oven, sprinkle the top with a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon powder for that extra flavor punch. Place your dish in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Bread and butter pudding can be served warm or cold, but there’s something about spooning into a warm dish that feels extra comforting. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for that perfect balance of warm and cold.
Tips for the Perfect Pudding
- Bread Choice: While day-old bread is recommended for its ability to soak up the custard better, don’t hesitate to use fresh bread if that’s what you have. Almost any kind of bread will work, so feel free to experiment.
- Flavor Twists: You can customize the pudding with various additions like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a splash of rum or brandy for an adult version.
- Dairy-Free? No Problem: Easily substitute the milk and butter for plant-based alternatives to cater to dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.
Conclusion
Bread and butter pudding is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dessert is forgiving, versatile, and sure to impress. So, the next time you find yourself with some leftover bread, remember that a cozy, comforting treat is just a bake away. Warm, gooey, and filled with love – there’s truly nothing quite like a homemade bread and butter pudding.
