Creamy Bread Pudding
Creamy bread pudding features tender bread soaked in rich custard with vanilla and raisins, baked to golden perfection, topped with meringue or whiskey sauce for added indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the bread in water until soft, then squeeze out excess water.
- Cream the butter and sugar together until well combined.
- Add the eggs (whole or yolks depending on preference), vanilla, and salt, mixing thoroughly.
- Pour in the condensed milk, Pet cream, and milk, stirring to combine.
- Add raisins or other fruit if desired.
- Mix the soaked bread into the custard mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake in a slow oven at about 200°C (392°F) for 1.5 hours or until the pudding rises and turns brown on top.
- Prepare meringue and spread on top of the pudding, then bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Alternatively, prepare a whiskey sauce by mixing confectioners sugar with butter and whiskey to taste, and serve alongside or over the pudding.
Tips & Substitutions
To make this creamy bread pudding even richer, consider substituting half and half for the milk. You can also use leftover brioche or challah bread instead of French bread for a sweeter flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. For added texture and flavor, toss in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy bread pudding warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a drizzle of whiskey sauce for a decadent touch. For a delightful brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or warm it in the oven at 175°C (350°F) until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Bread Pudding contains roughly 419 calories, with 7g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 make this bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it fresh the next day for the best texture and flavor. If you're short on time, you can also bake it in the morning and serve it later in the day.
What can I use instead of raisins in this recipe?
If you're not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Fresh fruits like blueberries or sliced bananas also work well, but may alter the custard's consistency slightly.
How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
The bread pudding is done when it has risen and the top is golden brown. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning while it finishes baking.
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).