Brown Sugar Casserole Pudding
Brown Sugar Casserole Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert with rich caramel flavors from dark brown sugar and a hint of cinnamon. Raisins and optional rum or bourbon add depth, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings. Its pudding-like texture and sweet aroma delight dessert lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle sugar over the bottom of a deep 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Spread both sides of the bread slices with margarine, cut into 1/2-inch cubes, and arrange over the sugar.
- Sprinkle with raisins.
- In a medium-sized bowl, beat the eggs slightly with a wooden spoon or whisk.
- Beat in cinnamon, milk, dark rum or bourbon, vanilla, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the raisins in the casserole.
- Place the casserole in a shallow pan; add hot water to the pan to come 1 inch up the sides of the casserole.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 60 to 70 minutes until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Remove from water and let stand 10 minutes.
- Loosen the pudding at the edges with a thin knife.
- Spoon into bowls and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the dark rum or bourbon with a splash of almond extract. If you prefer a nuttier taste, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts along with the raisins. Ensure the bread is truly day-old to help it absorb the egg mixture better, creating a more cohesive pudding. You can also use brioche or challah for a richer texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pudding warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You might also enjoy it with a slice of Kurt'S Peanut Butter Fudge for a sweet combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Brown Sugar Casserole Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brown Sugar Casserole Pudding contains roughly 731 calories, with 8g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
While day-old bread works best for this recipe, you can use fresh bread if needed. Just toast it lightly before cutting it into cubes to help it absorb the egg mixture better. This will prevent the pudding from becoming too soggy.
What can I use instead of margarine?
If you prefer not to use margarine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or a plant-based butter alternative. This will add a richer flavor to the pudding while still keeping the texture moist.
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding a day in advance. Simply assemble it as directed and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. Bake it the next day when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
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).