Old-Time Bread Pudding
Old-Time Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert that combines buttery toast and sweet raisins, all enveloped in a rich custard. With hints of vanilla and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it evokes nostalgia with every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings, this dish is a delightful way to use leftover bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Place toast, cut into quarters, in the dish.
- Sprinkle raisins over the top.
- Combine eggs, sugar, salt, milk, boiling water, and vanilla.
- Pour the mixture over the toast.
- Let stand for 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.
- Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade bread instead of store-bought toast. You can substitute almond milk for Pet milk to keep it dairy-free, and if you prefer a different fruit, try swapping raisins for dried cranberries or chopped apples. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the overall taste. For a lighter option, reduce the sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with a simple caramel sauce or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Cherry Topsy-Turvy Pudding as a sweet ending to a meal. For breakfast, top with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a comforting start to the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Time Bread Pudding contains roughly 635 calories, with 7g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (16% of the Daily Value), and potassium (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2018mg per serving (88% 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 use stale bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Stale bread works great for bread pudding as it absorbs the custard mixture better. If your bread is fresh, consider toasting it lightly to achieve a similar effect. This helps prevent the pudding from becoming too soggy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding mixture a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with bread pudding?
Bread pudding can be served with a variety of accompaniments. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream adds a creamy texture. For a more decadent option, drizzle with warm chocolate sauce or caramel. It also pairs well with coffee or a dessert wine for a complete experience.
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).