Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding

Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding Recipe with Cranberries and Walnuts

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

The Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, incorporating the wholesome goodness of sweet cornbread and the rich, creamy texture of silken tofu. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of plant-based ingredients, offering a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional bread pudding. Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive gathering, this bread pudding is sure to impress with its unique flavors and satisfying sweetness.

History

Bread pudding has its roots in early European cuisine, where it began as a humble way to use up stale bread. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a beloved dessert around the world, with each culture adding its own twist. The Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding recipe draws inspiration from this rich history, while incorporating modern, health-conscious ingredients like soy milk, maple syrup, and silken tofu, making it a contemporary classic that pays homage to its origins.

Ingredients

Sweet cornbread
1.5 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1.5 cup fine-ground cornmeal
0.5 tsp sea salt
4 tsp baking powder
6 tbsp canola oil
1.75 cup vanilla soy milk
0.25 cup maple syrup
2 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup dried cranberries or cherries
16 oz (454 g) silken tofu
2 tbsp canola oil
0.33 cup maple syrup
1 tbsp vanilla extract
0.5 tsp sea salt
1 tsp grated nutmeg
1 tsp ground allspice
2 tsp ground cinnamon
4 cup crumbled Sweet cornbread
0.5 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped

How to prepare

Cornbread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking powder.
In a small bowl, mix together the oil, soy milk, maple syrup, and vanilla.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix just until blended.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake until the top is lightly golden brown, about 25 minutes.
Set the pan on a wire rack to cool.
Meanwhile, soak the cranberries or cherries in enough water to cover for 20 minutes, then drain.
In a food processor, combine the tofu, canola oil, maple syrup, vanilla, salt, nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon, and process until smooth.
Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl and add the cranberries, crumbled cornbread, and walnuts. Mix well.
Pour the pudding into a greased 9-inch springform pan and cover lightly with a circle of wax paper.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. Let it cool for 15 minutes, then remove the side of the pan.

Variations

For a seasonal twist, try incorporating different fruits such as apples in the fall or peaches in the summer. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for a change in texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best texture and flavor for your Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding, consider the following tips:

- Use freshly baked sweet cornbread for a moist and flavorful base.

- Allow the cornbread to cool completely before crumbling to avoid a soggy pudding.

- Soak the cherries or cranberries to plump them up, enhancing their sweetness and texture.

- Blend the tofu mixture until completely smooth for a creamy consistency.

- Toast the walnuts before adding them to the mix to intensify their nutty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of vegan whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness. A side of fresh berries or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream also pairs beautifully with this dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, both for the sweet cornbread and the bread pudding itself. Ensuring even heat distribution and avoiding over-baking are key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're unable to find silken tofu, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vegan cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. Maple syrup can be replaced with agave nectar, and soy milk can be swapped for any other plant-based milk of your choice.

Make Ahead Tips

The sweet cornbread can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The assembled bread pudding can also be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake, making it a convenient option for entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve individual portions of the bread pudding on dessert plates garnished with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar. A decorative drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can also add a touch of sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

A sweet dessert wine or a cup of strong coffee makes an excellent accompaniment to the Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding. For a non-alcoholic option, a glass of almond milk or a spiced chai tea complements the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual servings in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a relatively light dessert option. The exact calorie count may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

This bread pudding is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from whole pastry flour, cornmeal, and maple syrup. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, and this dessert provides a balanced amount, making it a satisfying end to a meal without causing a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from healthful sources, including canola oil and walnuts. These ingredients contribute monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The use of canola oil also ensures that the pudding is free from trans fats.

Proteins

Silken tofu is the primary source of protein in this bread pudding, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, and this dessert offers a delicious way to incorporate more plant-based proteins into your diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Thanks to ingredients like soy milk, walnuts, and cherries, this bread pudding is packed with vitamins and minerals. Soy milk provides calcium and vitamin D, while walnuts offer vitamin E and magnesium. Cherries are rich in vitamin C and potassium, contributing to the overall nutritional value of this dessert.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as soy (soy milk, tofu) and tree nuts (walnuts). It is also gluten-free, as it uses whole pastry flour made from gluten-free grains. Always check labels to ensure that your ingredients are safe for those with allergies.

Summary

The Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding is a nutritionally balanced dessert, offering a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Summary

The Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding is a modern take on a classic dessert, offering a delicious and nutritious option for those seeking plant-based alternatives. With its rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and versatile serving options, this bread pudding is sure to become a favorite for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a cold winter day, and I was at a friend's house for a cozy afternoon tea. As we sat by the crackling fire, my friend brought out a steaming dish of bread pudding. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafted through the room, and my mouth watered at the sight of the golden, crispy top.

I took a bite, and I was instantly transported to a warm, comforting place. The pudding was moist and creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I begged my friend for the recipe.

She chuckled and told me that the recipe had been passed down in her family for generations. She handed me a faded, stained piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions written in elegant cursive. I clutched the paper to my chest, determined to master this delectable dessert.

I spent the next few weeks experimenting with the recipe, tweaking it here and there until I had perfected it to my liking. I added a touch of nutmeg for warmth, a sprinkle of raisins for sweetness, and a splash of rum for depth of flavor. Each batch I made was better than the last, and soon, I had my own unique version of the bread pudding that was loved by all who tried it.

I shared my recipe with friends and family, who raved about its deliciousness. They asked me where I had learned to make such a decadent dessert, and I proudly told them about that fateful day at my friend's house.

As word of my Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding spread, I began to receive requests to make it for special occasions. Birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings all became opportunities for me to showcase my culinary skills. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment each time someone took a bite of my pudding and smiled in delight.

Over the years, I continued to make my Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding, refining the recipe and making it my own. I added a dollop of whipped cream on top, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch. It became my signature dish, the one that everyone looked forward to whenever I was in charge of dessert.

But the true joy of making this bread pudding came from the memories it evoked. Every time I mixed the ingredients together, I thought of that cold winter day at my friend's house. I remembered the warmth of the fire, the laughter of good friends, and the joy of discovering a new favorite dessert.

As I grew older, I passed the recipe down to my own grandchildren, hoping that they would find the same joy in making it as I had. I showed them how to mix the batter just right, how to sprinkle the cinnamon with care, and how to bake it to perfection. And as we sat together, enjoying a slice of warm bread pudding, I knew that this recipe would continue to be a cherished tradition in our family for years to come.

So here I am, many years later, still making my Amaiz-ing Bread Pudding with love and care. It may have started with a simple recipe on a piece of paper, but it has become so much more than that. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to nourish both body and soul.

And as I take another bite of this delicious dessert, I am filled with gratitude for all the experiences and people who have contributed to my love of cooking. Each bite is a reminder of the journey that brought me to this moment, and I savor it with a full heart and a grateful spirit.