Bread and Butter Pudding is a classic, comforting dessert that has stood the test of time. This dish, which originated in England, transforms simple ingredients like bread, milk, and eggs into a luscious, custard-like treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy custard, buttery bread, and sweet raisins, all infused with the warmth of cinnamon, creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
I first encountered Bread and Butter Pudding at a quaint little bed and breakfast during a trip to the English countryside. The hostess served it warm, straight from the oven, with a dollop of fresh cream on top. It was love at first bite. Since then, I’ve made it a mission to perfect this dish at home, adding my own touches and enjoying it with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
8 slices of bread
⅓ cup raisins
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 ½ cups milk
¼ cup heavy whipping cream
2 large eggs
¼ cup granulated sugar + extra for topping
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut and Butter the Bread:
Cut the crusts off the 8 slices of bread. This step is optional, but it helps to create a softer texture in the final pudding.
Butter one side of each bread slice generously with 2 tablespoons of softened butter.
Cut each buttered slice in half diagonally to form triangles.
Layer the Bread:
Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish well with butter or non-stick spray.
Place a layer of the buttered bread triangles, butter side up, in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Ensure the slices slightly overlap.
Sprinkle half of the ⅓ cup raisins and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon over the layer of bread.
Add the Second Layer:
Arrange the remaining bread slices on top of the first layer, again butter side up and slightly overlapping.
Sprinkle the remaining raisins and cinnamon evenly over the top layer of bread.
Step 2: Make the Custard
Warm the Milk and Cream:
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of milk and ¼ cup of heavy whipping cream.
Warm the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and ¼ cup granulated sugar until well combined and slightly frothy.
Temper the Eggs:
Slowly pour a small amount of the warmed milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This process, called tempering, helps to prevent the eggs from curdling.
Gradually add the rest of the milk mixture to the tempered egg mixture, whisking continuously until fully incorporated.
Combine and Pour:
Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread in the baking dish. Ensure all the bread slices are well soaked.
Let the pudding sit for 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
Step 3: Bake the Pudding
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Add Sugar Topping:
Just before baking, sprinkle a little extra granulated sugar over the top of the pudding. This will create a deliciously caramelized crust.
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
Cool and Serve:
Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the custard to set fully.
Serve warm, optionally with a dollop of fresh cream, a scoop of ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Breads: While white bread is traditional, you can experiment with brioche, challah, or even croissants for a richer flavor and texture.
Dried Fruits: Substitute or add other dried fruits such as currants, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots.
Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans between the layers for added crunch.
Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of nutmeg to the custard mixture for extra depth of flavor.
Healthier Option: Use whole grain bread and reduce the sugar slightly for a healthier version. You can also use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and cream with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free milk of your choice. Use a dairy-free butter alternative for buttering the bread.
Conclusion
Bread and Butter Pudding is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its rich, custard-soaked bread layers, paired with the sweet raisins and fragrant cinnamon, create a dessert that is both simple and elegant. The versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own, whether by trying different types of bread, adding nuts, or experimenting with various dried fruits.
This dish is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to use up leftover bread, making it economical and eco-friendly. Enjoy this pudding as a satisfying end to a dinner or as a cozy treat on a cold day. Gather your loved ones, serve up this delightful pudding, and create lasting memories around the table.
