Decadent Bread and Butter Pudding You’ll Love!

Oh, let me tell you about something truly special—bread and butter pudding. It’s that warm, comforting dessert that instantly takes you back to cozy family gatherings and lazy Sunday afternoons. Just picture it: thick slices of buttery bread soaking in a sweet, creamy custard, baked to golden perfection. The aroma fills your kitchen, and you can hardly wait to dig in. It just… feels like home, you know? Perfect for using up those leftover bread slices that just sit there, waiting for their moment to shine.

Why You’ll Crave It

• Simple enough to whip up on a weekday but fancy enough for a dinner party!
• Warm and custardy… seriously, it’s like a hug in dessert form.
• Addictively delicious and versatile—mix in chocolate, fresh fruit, or nuts!
• Perfectly pairs with vanilla ice cream or warm custard, oh wow—it’s heavenly.
• It’s a classic that never fails to impress; your friends will LOVE it!

My family fights over the last spoonful, it’s just that good!

What You’ll Need

• 8 slices of stale bread: Think brioche or challah… they make it so rich and tasty!
• 50g unsalted butter: About 3.5 tablespoons, for slathering—because who doesn’t love butter?
• 500ml milk: That’s roughly 2 cups, use whole milk for that lovely creaminess!
• 250ml heavy cream: A cup’s worth; it adds dreamy richness.
• 100g granulated sugar: About half a cup, to sweeten things up just right!
• 4 large eggs: These help create that silky custard texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Because vanilla makes everything better, right?
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Such warm, cozy vibes.
• Pinch of nutmeg: Just a little, for that extra flavor kick.
• 100g raisins or sultanas: About half a cup, or skip them if that’s not your thing!

Easy How-To

Let’s Get Cooking

Alright, here we go… First up, cut your stale bread into thick slices. I usually do about an inch thick, so they hold up well in the pudding. Now, take that lovely unsalted butter and generously spread it on one side of each slice. Don’t be shy! This is where the magic begins. Then, layer those buttered slices in a buttered baking dish. You can stack them however you want, but I like a nice, neat arrangement.

Next, let’s whip up the custard. In a bowl, whisk together those eggs, sugar, milk, and cream until everything just blends together. Add in the vanilla—oh, the smell! Can you smell it? Mmm. Now pour that luscious custard right over the bread. Give it a nice gentle nudge so every slice is soaked through. Let it sit for about 20 to 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This is when the magic gets serious.

When it’s had a good soak, sprinkle a little nutmeg or cinnamon on top, for that touch of coziness. Now it’s time to bake! Pop the dish in the oven and let it work its wonders for about 35 to 45 minutes. When the top is golden brown and the custard is just set, take it out and let it cool for a bit. It’s tough, I know, but trust me, it’ll be worth it!

Good to Know

• If you have leftover bread that’s a bit too stale, this recipe is perfect for that!
• This pudding can be made a day ahead—just make sure to refrigerate it and then pop it in the oven, but it’ll need a few extra minutes.
• Feel free to get creative—different kinds of bread or add-ins like chocolate or fruit can really elevate it!

Serving Ideas

• Serve it warm with a generous drizzle of warm custard or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it just sings!

Top Tricks

• Give your bread a little time to dry out… it absorbs the custard better, trust me!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?

Well, fresh bread can work, but it’s just… it might not soak up the custard quite the same. Stale bread really does make a difference in texture—you’ll get that nice custardy goodness!

What types of bread are best for this recipe?

Brioche and challah are my go-to favorites! They add a richness that’s just… wow. But you can mix in some white or wholemeal bread; it will still be fab.

Can I add other flavors to the custard?

Oh, absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cinnamon, and you can even throw in some citrus zest for a fresh twist!

How do I know when the pudding is done baking?

Look for a golden top… and give it a gentle shake; if it has a slight jiggle in the center, it’s just about perfect!

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can totally prepare it in advance. Just pop it in the fridge after soaking, and then bake it when you’re ready. It’s so handy!

Conclusion

So there you have it, my heartwarming bread and butter pudding—it’s nostalgic and cozy, bringing simple ingredients together in such a delightful way. Whether it’s for a family gathering or just a quiet night in, this pudding… it’s always a hit. And honestly, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a slice of this homemade goodness, knowing it’s a favorite for many, just like it is in my family.

More recipe suggestions and combinations

Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding

Bring in layers of rich chocolate spread for a decadent take.

Fruit and Nut Bread and Butter Pudding

Add dried fruits like raisins or chopped nuts for texture and flavor.

Coconut Bread and Butter Pudding

Swapping milk for coconut milk introduces a yummy tropical twist!

Spiced Bread and Butter Pudding

Infuse with spices like cinnamon or cardamom for some aromatic warmth.

Lemon and Blueberry Bread and Butter Pudding

Fold in some zesty citrus and blueberries for a refreshing lift.

Savory Bread and Butter Pudding

Why not add cheese, herbs, or veggies for a fun twist on the classic?