"Deluxe" Bread Pudding
A rich, comforting bread pudding with cinnamon, raisins, and a custard base, perfect for dessert or brunch, appealing to those who enjoy sweet, baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Lightly toast the bread slices.
- Spread butter on each slice.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Put two toast slices together to make sandwiches.
- Remove crusts from the sandwiches and cut each into 4 rectangles.
- Arrange the bread rectangles in a single layer in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle raisins over the bread.
- Beat eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt (if using) together.
- Scald the milk and gradually pour it into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to combine.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread in the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah bread instead of regular slices. You can also substitute the raisins with chopped nuts or other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots. If you're looking for a lower sugar option, try using a sugar substitute suitable for baking. Make sure to toast the bread well to help it absorb the custard mixture without becoming too soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with a homemade vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It pairs beautifully with 'Aunt Re'S' Corn Pudding as a side dish for a comforting meal. For a breakfast twist, enjoy it with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Storage & Reheating
After baking, allow the bread pudding to cool completely before storing. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Deluxe" Bread Pudding contains roughly 313 calories, with 4g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1332mg per serving (58% 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
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 pour the custard over the bread right before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the custard. Adjust the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
Absolutely! Almond milk can be a great substitute for regular milk in this recipe. Just ensure that you choose an unsweetened variety to control the sweetness of the pudding. This makes it suitable for those looking for a dairy-free option without compromising on texture.
How do I know when the bread pudding is done baking?
The bread pudding is done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can test this by inserting a knife in the middle; it should come out clean. If it’s still liquid, continue baking for a few more minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
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).