Bread Pudding and Custard

Bread Pudding and Custard Recipe from United Kingdom

Region / culture: United Kingdom | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Bread Pudding and Custard is a classic dessert that has been cherished through generations. This comforting dish combines the simplicity of bread and the richness of custard to create a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is both easy to make and deliciously satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will help you create a mouthwatering Bread Pudding and Custard that everyone will love.

History

The origins of Bread Pudding can be traced back to the early 11th and 12th centuries. Initially, it was a means to utilize stale bread, thus preventing waste. Over time, it evolved into a beloved dessert across various cultures, with each adding its unique twist to the recipe. The addition of custard, a mixture traditionally made from eggs and milk, further enriched the dish, making it a staple in comfort food menus around the world.

Ingredients

1 can of evaporated milk
1 cup of milk
6 eggs
1 tbsp of vanilla
1 cup of sugar
0.5 cup of brown sugar
5 slices of white bread (cubed)
1 stick of margarine

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Spray a 9 by 11 inches pyrex dish with non-stick spray.
Sprinkle brown sugar on the bottom of the dish.
Break the bread into cubes and place them on top of the sugar.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milks, sugar, and vanilla.
Pour the mixture over the bread cubes.
If desired, add a few raisins.
Cut the stick of margarine into pieces and distribute them evenly on top of the pudding.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes.
While the pudding is baking, melt another stick of margarine in a heavy saucepan.
Add 0.5 cup of flour to the melted margarine and stir to make a paste.
Gradually add 1 cup of evaporated milk and 0.5 cup of water to the saucepan, whisking continuously.
Bring the mixture to a boil and continue whisking until it thickens.
Stir in 1 tsp of vanilla and 0.25 tsp of salt.
Lower the heat and continue whisking until the sauce is very smooth.
Serve the sauce over each bowl of bread pudding.

Variations

Chocolate Bread Pudding: Add chocolate chips and cocoa powder to the bread mixture for a chocolatey twist.
Fruit Bread Pudding: Mix in dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or fresh apples for added flavor and texture.
Savory Bread Pudding: Omit the sugar and add cheese, herbs, and cooked vegetables for a savory version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Bread Pudding and Custard turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard mixture more effectively.

- For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of whole milk and cream instead of just milk.

- Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the custard can enhance its flavor.

- For a smoother custard sauce, strain the mixture before cooking to remove any egg bits.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bread Pudding warm with a generous drizzle of custard sauce. For an extra touch of indulgence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can be added on top.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe. Ensuring even heat distribution and preventing the top from burning are crucial for a perfect outcome. The custard sauce is made using a stovetop method, requiring constant stirring to achieve a smooth consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Almond milk or coconut milk can be used instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.

- Maple syrup or honey can substitute for sugar for a different flavor profile.

- Gluten-free bread can be used to make this dessert gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

Bread Pudding is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare and refrigerate the unbaked mixture overnight, and simply bake it the next day. The custard sauce can also be made in advance and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Bread Pudding in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or mint leaves for added color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Bread Pudding and Custard pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a dessert wine option, a sweet Riesling or a Port wine complements the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Bread Pudding and Custard in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The custard sauce may need a bit of milk added when reheating to achieve the desired consistency.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A typical serving of Bread Pudding and Custard contains approximately 300-400 calories. The exact number can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Bread Pudding and Custard contains approximately 45-60 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources include sugar, bread, and milk. Opting for whole grain bread can increase the fiber content, making it a slightly healthier option.

Fats

This dessert is relatively high in fats, with each serving containing about 10-15 grams, primarily from the eggs, milk, and margarine. Using low-fat milk and margarine can help reduce the fat content without compromising the taste significantly.

Proteins

Each serving of Bread Pudding and Custard provides about 8-12 grams of protein, mainly from the eggs and milk. This makes it a dessert that can also contribute to your daily protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Bread Pudding and Custard is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, thanks to the milk and eggs. It also contains iron and B vitamins, particularly if whole grain bread is used.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, milk, and gluten. For those with allergies, consider using gluten-free bread and substituting traditional milk and eggs with suitable alternatives.

Summary

While Bread Pudding and Custard is a comforting and delicious dessert, it is relatively high in sugars and fats. Enjoying it in moderation as part of a balanced diet is key. Substituting some ingredients with healthier alternatives can also make it a more nutritious option.

Summary

Bread Pudding and Custard is a timeless dessert that offers warmth, comfort, and indulgence. With its rich history and versatility, it's a dish that can be customized to suit any taste. By following the tips and variations provided, you can create a dessert that's both delicious and memorable. Whether enjoyed as a sweet end to a meal or a cozy treat, Bread Pudding and Custard is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, that I first learned how to make bread pudding and custard. I remember it like it was yesterday, the smell of warm bread and creamy custard filling the kitchen as I watched my mother work her magic.

My mother was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new recipes and flavors. She had a knack for taking simple ingredients and turning them into delicious meals that would leave you wanting more. One day, as I sat at the kitchen table doing my homework, she called me over to help her with a new recipe she had found in an old cookbook.

As she showed me how to tear the bread into pieces and soak them in milk, I was fascinated by the way she handled each ingredient with care and precision. She explained to me that bread pudding was a thrifty way to use up stale bread, and that custard was a simple yet decadent addition that elevated the dish to a whole new level.

I watched intently as she mixed together eggs, sugar, and vanilla to create the creamy custard that would be poured over the bread. The smell of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air as she sprinkled them over the top, adding a warm and comforting aroma to the dish.

As the pudding baked in the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement. The anticipation of tasting the final product was almost too much to bear. When my mother finally pulled the dish out of the oven, the golden brown crust glistened in the light, and I knew that this would be a recipe I would cherish for years to come.

As we sat down to enjoy our dessert, I took my first bite of the warm, creamy pudding and felt a rush of nostalgia wash over me. The flavors were rich and comforting, the perfect combination of sweetness and warmth. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, one that I would pass down to my own children and grandchildren one day.

Over the years, I have made this bread pudding and custard recipe countless times, each time adding my own twist or variation to make it my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its simplicity and deliciousness. And every time I make it, I think back to that day in my mother's kitchen, when I first learned the magic of bread pudding and custard.

It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and care that goes into creating a truly memorable dish. And as I continue to cook and bake for my loved ones, I hope to pass on the joy and warmth that this recipe has brought me over the years. For in every bite of bread pudding and custard, there is a taste of tradition and a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.