English Custard Bread Pudding

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: British

English Custard Bread Pudding offers a comforting dessert with tender bread slices soaked in a rich custard infused with vanilla and cinnamon. Creamy and sweet, it pairs well with a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of cream, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or a satisfying finish to any meal.

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Ingredients

  • 6 to 8 thin slices bread, buttered
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 4 cups milk
  • 4 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • cinnamon (as desired)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Cut buttered bread lengthwise into 3 pieces.
  3. Scald milk (heat to almost boiling).
  4. Pour the hot milk over the beaten eggs that have been mixed with sugar and vanilla.
  5. Add cinnamon to the mixture.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider using brioche or challah bread instead of regular bread; both absorb the custard beautifully. If you're short on time, you can use pre-sliced bread or even leftover pastries. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your bread and personal preference. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile, complementing the cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a drizzle of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for indulgence. This bread pudding pairs beautifully with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added freshness. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Hot Cocktail Canapes for a delightful brunch or dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the pudding.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of English Custard Bread Pudding contains roughly 956 calories, with 7g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value).

956 kcal 48% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.3g 15% DV
Total Fat 13.1g 17% DV
Carbs 109.8g 40% DV
Fiber 2.3g 8% DV
Sugar 20.8g 42% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 417.7mg 18% DV
Potassium 619.6mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 129.1mg 43% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 128.6mcg 14% DV
Vitamin C 11.6mg 13% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 125.9mg 10% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bread pudding mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the pudding and bake it the next day for best results. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

While traditional white bread works well, using brioche, challah, or even day-old pastries can elevate the texture and flavor. The key is to select a bread that can absorb the custard without falling apart.

Can I add fruits or nuts to the pudding?

Yes, adding fruits like raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apples can enhance the pudding's flavor and texture. You can also mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch, but be sure to adjust the sugar if using sweetened fruits.

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).

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