Spicy Bread Pudding
A warm, spicy bread pudding with comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, perfect for dessert or brunch, appealing to those who love cozy, flavorful treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs lightly in a mixing bowl.
- Add sugar, pumpkin pie spice, salt, milk, and vanilla; stir well.
- Heat 1 3/4 cups milk until hot; stir into the egg mixture.
- Blend in bread crumbs; mix thoroughly.
- Turn the mixture into a buttered 1-quart casserole dish.
- Place the casserole in a pan of hot water to create a water bath.
- Bake, uncovered, in a 325°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider incorporating chopped nuts or dried fruit into the bread pudding mixture. If you don't have pumpkin pie spice, a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg works well. Ensure your bread crumbs are soft for a tender texture; day-old bread works best. For a creamier texture, substitute heavy cream for part of the milk. This dish can also be made ahead of time, just refrigerate before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spicy bread pudding warm, drizzled with a simple caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with Mammaw'S Buttermilk Pound Cake for a dessert spread. Consider adding a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish, making it a versatile option for brunch or dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spicy bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave for quick warmth or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Bread Pudding contains roughly 111 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1207mg per serving (52% 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 a different type of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While soft bread crumbs are recommended, you can experiment with brioche or challah for a richer flavor. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale for the best texture. If using whole grain or gluten-free bread, the pudding may have a different consistency, but it will still taste delicious.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this spicy bread pudding dairy-free, substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. You can also use coconut cream for a richer flavor. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like the bread and any toppings, are dairy-free as well to maintain the recipe's integrity.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the bread pudding mixture the night before and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, or adjust the baking time accordingly. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings or brunch.
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).