Basic Bread Pudding
Creamy bread pudding with warm spices and sweet raisins, offering a comforting dessert perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights. Its rich flavors and soft texture make it a versatile treat that can be served warm or chilled, appealing to those who enjoy classic, homemade desserts with a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread bread cubes evenly in an 8-inch round dish.
- Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar, nutmeg, salt, then raisins.
- Measure milk into a 1-quart measuring cup.
- Add butter to the milk.
- Microwave at High for 4 minutes, until butter is melted and milk is warm.
- Rapidly stir in beaten eggs with a fork and mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the bread cubes in the dish.
- Microwave on Medium-high for 9 to 12 minutes until set.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah bread instead of regular bread. If you don't have milk, a non-dairy alternative like almond milk works well. You can also enhance the dish with spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract. If you prefer a different dried fruit, feel free to swap out the raisins for cranberries or chopped apricots for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bread pudding warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. It also pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. For a cozy brunch option, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a side of yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warmed through. You can also bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes if you prefer a firmer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Bread Pudding contains roughly 588 calories, with 7g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value) and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1427mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do if I don't have eggs?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana for each egg. This will maintain the moisture and binding needed for the pudding while keeping it suitable for vegetarian diets.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).