Steam Bread Pudding
Steam bread pudding offers a warm, comforting dessert with rich brown sugar and vanilla flavors, ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put a cup of brown sugar into the top of a double boiler.
- Ensure there is water in the bottom pot of the double boiler.
- Butter 4 slices of bread on both sides and cut them into cubes.
- Place the bread cubes on top of the brown sugar in the double boiler.
- Beat 3 eggs and add 2 cups of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla, then mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes in the double boiler.
- Do not stir the mixture.
- Cook until a knife inserted into the pudding comes out clean, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture. You can substitute stale bread for fresh to reduce waste, and any type of bread works well, including brioche or challah. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, increase the brown sugar to 1 1/4 cups. For a different texture, try adding raisins or nuts into the bread cubes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with a simple caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside slices of Florida White Fruit Cake during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Serve warm for the best experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steam Bread Pudding contains roughly 911 calories, with 10g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 578mg per serving (25% 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 bread pudding mixture a day in advance. Just assemble it in the double boiler, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, simply place it on the stovetop and steam as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What types of bread are best for this recipe?
Stale bread works best for bread pudding as it absorbs the egg and milk mixture without becoming too soggy. You can use white, whole wheat, or even flavored breads like cinnamon-raisin. Avoid using overly moist or soft bread like sandwich bread unless it's slightly stale.
How can I tell when the pudding is done cooking?
The pudding is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, usually taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. Keep an eye on the water level in the double boiler to ensure it doesn't dry out, which could lead to uneven cooking.
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).