Bread pudding is one of those timeless desserts that evoke cozy memories of family gatherings and comforting kitchens. If you’re wondering how to make old fashioned bread pudding, you’re in for a treat. This dessert uses simple ingredients, often from your pantry, and transforms stale bread into a rich, custardy delight with a golden crust. Let’s dive into a classic recipe and some tips to help you master this beloved comfort food.
What Is Old Fashioned Bread Pudding?
Old fashioned bread pudding is a baked dessert made by soaking cubes of bread in a custard mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and spices, then baking it until set and golden. Traditionally, it includes raisins or other dried fruits, and sometimes a drizzle of warm sauce on top. It’s a great way to use up leftover or slightly stale bread, turning it into a luscious treat that’s perfect warm or cold.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a classic old fashioned bread pudding, gather the following:
– 3 cups soft bread cubes (about 5 slices; slightly stale bread works best)
– 2 cups milk
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) softened butter
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional, but traditional)
– Optional: real maple syrup or vanilla sauce for serving
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Old Fashioned Bread Pudding
1. Prepare Your Oven and Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut your bread into cubes about 1-inch in size. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out by spreading the cubes on a baking sheet and warming them in the oven for about 10 minutes at a low temperature to make them slightly stale. This helps the bread absorb the custard without becoming mushy.
2. Make the Custard Mixture
In a small bowl, scald the milk by heating it just below boiling. Pour the hot milk over the softened butter and stir until the butter melts completely. In a larger bowl, beat the eggs, then gradually add the warm milk and butter mixture. Stir in the sugar, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Combine Bread and Custard
Place the bread cubes and raisins (if using) in a greased 1½-quart baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, gently stirring to ensure all pieces are moistened evenly. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes so the bread can soak up the custard.
4. Bake the Bread Pudding
Set the baking dish inside a larger pan and add hot water to the larger pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath helps the pudding cook evenly and prevents it from drying out. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your old fashioned bread pudding warm or cold. For an extra touch, drizzle with real maple syrup, vanilla sauce, or a simple brown butter sauce. Adding fresh cream or custard on the side also complements the dish beautifully.
Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Bread Pudding
– Use Stale Bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard better and holds its shape during baking. If you only have fresh bread, dry it in the oven as described above.
– Choose the Right Bread: Rustic breads like French or Italian loaves work best because they have a sturdy texture and absorb custard well without falling apart.
– Add Fruit or Nuts: Raisins are classic, but feel free to add chopped apples, pears, peaches, or nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra flavor and texture.
– Make Ahead: You can assemble the pudding the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
– Try a Sauce: A warm vanilla sauce or a bourbon-infused caramel sauce elevates the pudding to a decadent dessert.
Variations to Try
– Traditional British Style: Incorporate mixed dried fruits, candied peel, and spices like nutmeg and mixed spice. Use suet or butter for richness, and bake longer until golden and puffed.
– Bourbon Bread Pudding: Soak raisins in bourbon before adding them to the pudding, and serve with a bourbon sauce for a Southern twist.
– Brown Butter Vanilla Sauce: Make a simple sauce with butter, brown sugar, and vanilla to drizzle over the pudding for extra indulgence.
Old fashioned bread pudding is a versatile, forgiving dessert that can be adapted to your taste and what you have on hand. Its warm, custardy texture and nostalgic flavors make it a perfect ending to any meal or a cozy afternoon treat.
Enjoy baking and savoring this classic dessert that brings a little bit of the past into your kitchen today!