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Classic Bread Pudding: A Timeless Dessert
Introduction
The image showcases a delectable bread pudding, baked to perfection with a golden-brown crust and soft, custard-like interior.
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Bread pudding is a classic dessert that transforms stale bread into a rich, comforting treat.
Often studded with raisins or other dried fruits and flavored with warm spices, this dish is a favorite in many households.
Ingredients
6 cups of cubed day-old bread (French or Italian bread works well)
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cube Bread:
Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add Dried Fruit:
Sprinkle the raisins or dried cranberries over the bread cubes.
Step 2: Make the Custard
Whisk Eggs:
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until well beaten.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the eggs. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Pour Over Bread:
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Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the bread and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 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.
Step 4: Serve
Cool Slightly:
Allow the bread pudding to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Serve:
Serve warm, optionally with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Best Results
Bread Choice: Using day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard more effectively without becoming too mushy.
Add-Ins: Customize your bread pudding by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or different types of dried fruits.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavorings such as almond extract, bourbon, or orange zest for a unique twist.
Conclusion
This classic bread pudding is a delightful way to turn leftover bread into a comforting and indulgent dessert. With its rich custard base and sweet, spiced flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to festive celebrations.
Keywords
Bread pudding recipe
Classic dessert
Comfort food
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Easy dessert recipe
Raisin bread pudding
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Warm spice dessert
Homemade bread pudding