When the chill of winter sets in, nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting old fashioned bread pudding recipe. This timeless dessert wraps you in nostalgia, bringing back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent by the fireplace. The delightful combination of buttery bread, creamy custard, and a hint of cinnamon creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table.
Moreover, this classic bread pudding recipe is not only delicious but also unbelievably easy to whip up. It allows you to transform stale bread into a scrumptious treat, making it a wonderful way to reduce food waste. With each velvety bite, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about simpler times, while savoring a treat that never fails to satisfy. Dive into this culinary comfort and discover why an old fashioned bread pudding is a beloved favorite!
Ingredients:
To create a delightful and satisfying Comforting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
– 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread, brioche, or challah work wonderfully)
– 3 large eggs, room temperature
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream (half-and-half can be used for a lighter version)
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
This comforting dessert serves as a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. For an excellent complement to this recipe, consider trying out the Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding, another cherished classic. The two dishes share a warm, inviting appeal that many adore.
Embrace the delightful blend of flavors in this old-fashioned treat, perfect for any gathering or cozy evening at home!
How to Prepare Comforting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe:
Begin your delightful journey to creating this Comforting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, then slowly incorporate the whole milk and heavy cream. Next, blend in both sugars, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, ensuring a smooth mixture.
Once well combined, add the day-old bread cubes, gently folding them into the mixture so they absorb the creamy goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in the raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. Let this sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
While the mixture rests, grease your baking dish with melted butter. Pour the soaked bread mixture into the dish, then place it in the oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until the top becomes golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean. Serve warm with a drizzle of cream or a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate comfort treat.
For more heartwarming recipes, explore our Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding, a lovely way to revisit childhood flavors!
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Comforting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe to Savor Today
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Comforting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe combines the flavors of rich custard, warm spices, and sweet bread for a delightful dessert that brings back memories of home. Perfect for using up day-old bread!
Ingredients
6 cups day-old bread
cubed (French bread
brioche
or challah work wonderfully)
3 large eggs
room temperature
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy whipping cream (you can use half-and-half as a less rich alternative)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar
packed
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
melted
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed bread to the mixture, gently folding until all the pieces are soaked.
- If using, stir in the raisins or dried cranberries.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and drizzle the melted butter over the top.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Notes
For a richer flavor, feel free to swap in some bourbon or rum into the custard mixture. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
Keywords: comforting, old fashioned, bread pudding, dessert, American, recipe
Tips for Making the Best Comforting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe:
To achieve a delightful texture in your comforting old fashioned bread pudding recipe, begin with stale bread. This will absorb the custard mixture without turning mushy. Additionally, use a variety of bread types like brioche or challah for enhanced flavor. If you want to add a twist, consider incorporating sweet raisins or zesty citrus peel.
While assembling, allow your bread cubes to soak in the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This ensures even moisture throughout. Baking in a water bath at a low temperature helps create a gentle steam environment, yielding a creamy interior. For an extra touch, serve with warm caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
For more detailed instructions and variations, check out this fantastic guide on old-fashioned bread pudding. If you’re in the mood for other comforting dishes, explore delightful recipes like Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding for another taste of nostalgia.
Serving Suggestions :
Bread pudding serves as a deliciously versatile dessert that can be tailored to suit different occasions. To elevate your Comforting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe, consider serving it warm with a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the pudding combined with the cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that your guests will love.
For a delightful breakfast or brunch idea, enjoy this creamy dessert with a side of Peach and Poppyseed Sour Cream Pancakes. The combination will surely create a comforting morning spread.
Additionally, dusting your bread pudding with powdered sugar or adding fresh berries on top can provide a touch of elegance. Finally, consider offering a rich bourbon or rum sauce on the side for those who want to enhance their experience with an adult twist. Enjoy every bite!
Storage Tips for Comforting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe:
To maximize the freshness of your comforting old fashioned bread pudding, proper storage is essential. First, let the pudding cool to room temperature before wrapping it. Use plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and keep out unwanted odors. You can refrigerate it for up to five days, making it a great option for make-ahead meals. If you want to store the pudding for a longer duration, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows for easy thawing when you’re ready to enjoy another comforting slice.
When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave. For an extra touch of warmth, drizzle a little cream or milk before reheating. If you’re in the mood for more delightful recipes, try out our Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows. This dish will surely complement your comforting pudding for a hearty meal. Enjoy your delicious bread pudding, knowing it will stay fresh and tasty!
Why You’ll Love This Comforting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe:
This nostalgic bread pudding is a warm, satisfying dessert that evokes fond memories. Its rich, creamy texture and hints of vanilla and cinnamon melt in your mouth, ensuring each bite is pure bliss. When you’re looking for more comforting dishes, try exploring my Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding, another delightful way to indulge in sweet tradition!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the base ingredient for bread pudding?
The base of a delightful and classic bread pudding is generally stale or day-old bread. This allows the bread to soak in the custard mixture made of eggs, milk, and sugar, which ultimately creates that rich, comforting texture we all love in an old fashioned bread pudding recipe.
Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! While traditional recipes often call for white bread or brioche, you can explore using whole grain, challah, or even cinnamon raisin bread. Each variation will add its unique flavor profile to your comforting old fashioned bread pudding recipe.
How long should I bake bread pudding?
Typically, baking your bread pudding should take about 40 to 50 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the custard and mix it with the bread a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate overnight. This way, the flavors meld together beautifully, ensuring a more enjoyable comforting experience.
What are some popular toppings for bread pudding?
Popular toppings include a drizzle of warm caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an additional flavor boost, consider pairing it with my delicious recipe for Honey Garlic Salmon, as the sweet elements will complement the pudding nicely.
How do I store leftover bread pudding?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This allows you to enjoy your comforting old fashioned bread pudding several times!