Introduction
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is a classic dessert that dates back centuries and is cherished for its simplicity and comfort. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose stale bread into a warm, custardy treat that’s rich in flavor and texture. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, bread pudding is versatile and can be customized with various add-ins like fruits, nuts, and spices.
Ingredients
• 8 slices of stale bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups of milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
• Butter for greasing the dish
• Optional: caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for serving
Instructions
Method
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare the Bread: Cut the stale bread into cubes and place them evenly in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the raisins over the bread cubes if using.
3. Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
4. Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing the bread down gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
5. Rest: Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Top with caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
History
Bread pudding has its roots in 11th-century Europe when frugal cooks sought ways to use stale bread instead of wasting it. Over the centuries, it evolved from a simple peasant dish into a beloved dessert in various cultures. Today, it remains a staple in many kitchens worldwide, often evoking nostalgia and comfort.
Benefits
• Reduces Food Waste: Bread pudding is a great way to use up stale bread, minimizing food waste.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from eggs and milk, it provides a good dose of calcium, vitamins, and energy.
• Versatile: You can customize the pudding with fruits, nuts, chocolate chips, or even savory ingredients.
• Comfort Food: Its warm, soft texture and rich flavor make it a favorite comfort food for many.
Formation
Bread pudding is formed by soaking bread in a rich custard mixture made from eggs, milk, and sugar, and then baking it until set. The resulting dish is moist on the inside with a slightly crispy top, delivering a delightful contrast in textures.
Nutrition
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
• Calories: 300
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 25g
• Calcium: 100mg
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity, tradition, and flavor. Its versatility allows for endless variations, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether served warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or simply dusted with powdered sugar, it’s sure to bring comfort and joy.
Bread Pudding Lovers
Bread pudding enthusiasts appreciate its rich history and the warm, homey feeling it brings. It’s a dessert that transcends generations, often evoking fond memories of family gatherings and special occasions. From classic recipes to modern twists, bread pudding remains a cherished dish for many.