Easy Bread Pudding
A comforting and versatile bread pudding featuring soft bread soaked in sweetened milk and vanilla, topped with fluffy meringue. Perfect as a dessert or brunch treat, this dish offers rich flavors and a delightful texture that appeals to both family and guests alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak bread slices in Pet milk until fully saturated.
- Beat egg yolks with 1/2 cup sugar until well combined.
- Add milk and margarine to the egg yolk mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Cook the mixture until it starts to boil and thickens.
- Pour the cooked mixture into a buttered baking dish.
- Beat egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add 1/4 cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread or pipe the beaten egg whites over the bread mixture.
- Bake in the oven until the top is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use brioche or challah bread instead of regular sliced bread. You can substitute Pet milk with evaporated milk or a mix of whole milk and cream for added creaminess. If you want to reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute or honey, adjusting to taste. Ensure the bread is stale for better absorption, which enhances the texture. This recipe can be customized with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for a delightful treat. This bread pudding pairs beautifully with a side of Raspberry Tang Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a breakfast twist, consider adding some fresh berries or nuts to the top before serving. Perfect for brunch or dessert!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce while serving can elevate the leftovers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Bread Pudding contains roughly 804 calories, with 9g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 645mg per serving (28% 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 mixture a day in advance. Assemble everything in the baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight, then bake it the next day. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a convenient dessert option.
What types of bread work best for bread pudding?
Stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming too mushy. Brioche, challah, or even day-old baguette can enhance the flavor and texture. Avoid fresh bread as it may not hold up well during baking.
Can I add other ingredients like fruit or chocolate?
Absolutely! You can mix in raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped fruits like apples or bananas into the bread mixture for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of adjusting the sugar if you're using sweet ingredients.
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).