Old Time Bread Puddin'
Old Time Bread Puddin' is a comforting dessert featuring layers of toasted bread soaked in a vanilla-raisins custard, topped with a fluffy meringue. Its rich flavors and warm textures make it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, offering a nostalgic taste of classic home baking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break the bread into pieces and toss with melted butter and 1/4 cup of milk.
- Place the bread mixture in a 1 1/2 quart baking dish.
- Beat the sugar and egg yolks together until well blended.
- Add the remaining 3 1/4 cups of milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and raisins; mix well.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread in the baking dish.
- Place the dish in a pan of water and bake at 300°F for 40-50 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Beat the egg whites until foamy.
- Add a pinch of salt and gradually add 2 tablespoons of sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the pudding.
- Return the dish to the oven and raise the temperature to 350°F; bake until the meringue turns brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah instead of regular bread. You can substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a different twist. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 4 tablespoons. Ensure the bread is slightly stale for better absorption of the custard mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a drizzle of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. It pairs beautifully with Sauteed Onions as a savory side, creating an interesting contrast. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Time Bread Puddin' contains roughly 639 calories, with 7g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value) and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 6g 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding up to the point of baking and store it covered in the refrigerator for a day. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This allows for even cooking and a better texture.
What can I use instead of eggs?
For a vegan alternative, you can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, allowed to sit until thickened). This will help bind the ingredients and maintain moisture.
Can I freeze the bread pudding?
Yes, you can freeze the baked bread pudding. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven to restore its texture.
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).