Creole Bread Pudding

Creole Bread Pudding Recipe - A Delicious Dessert from Creole Cuisine

Region / culture: Creole | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Creole Bread Pudding is a classic Southern dessert that is rich, comforting, and full of flavor. This decadent dish is perfect for special occasions or just when you're craving something sweet and satisfying.

History

Bread pudding has been a popular dessert for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures around the world. Creole Bread Pudding specifically has its roots in Louisiana Creole cuisine, which is a unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences.

Ingredients

1 loaf french bread
2 tbsp vanilla
1 qt (946 ml) milk
1 cup golden raisins
3 eggs
4 tbsp butter
2 cups of sugar

Whiskey sauce

1 stick of butter (0.25 lb (113 g))
1 egg
1 cup confectioners' sugar
1 jigger of bourbon

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Break the French bread into about 8 pieces.
In a large bowl, soak the bread in milk until well soaked.
Mix the bread around before adding the next ingredients.
Beat the egg, sugar, and vanilla well, then add to the bread mixture.
Next, add the raisins and stir the mixture well.
Grease a baking pan with butter and pour the mixture into the pan.
Place the pan with the pudding in another shallow pan with about an inch of water in it.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 40 minutes or until the pudding is firm.
When cooked, take out of the oven and allow it to cool.

Whiskey sauce

In a double boiler, cook the butter and sugar until completely dissolved.
Add the egg, beating very quickly so that it won't curdle.
When the mixture smooths, add whiskey.
If you desire a stronger whiskey taste, add more.
Cut the bread pudding into serving pieces and place them in a deep dish.
Add the whiskey sauce to the top of the pudding.

Variations

Try adding different fruits such as apples, peaches, or berries to the bread pudding for a fresh twist.
Experiment with different spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for added flavor.
For a savory twist, you can add bacon or cheese to the bread pudding mixture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the bread in milk until it is well saturated for a creamy and moist pudding.

- Be sure to grease the baking pan well to prevent sticking.

- Adding raisins gives the pudding a sweet and chewy texture, but you can also add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

- Serving the pudding with a warm whiskey sauce adds a delicious boozy kick to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creole Bread Pudding warm with a generous drizzle of whiskey sauce on top. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent touch.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the bread pudding in a water bath helps to ensure that the pudding cooks evenly and stays moist.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of bread for this recipe, but French bread works best for its soft texture.

- If you don't have raisins, you can substitute with dried cranberries or chopped apricots.

- If you don't have bourbon for the whiskey sauce, you can use rum or brandy instead.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the bread pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Simply cover the pan with plastic wrap and bake when ready.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the bread pudding in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a sprig of mint for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Creole Bread Pudding pairs well with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine such as Sauternes or Moscato.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Creole Bread Pudding contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creole Bread Pudding contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Creole Bread Pudding contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Creole Bread Pudding contains approximately 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Creole Bread Pudding is not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

Creole Bread Pudding is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Creole Bread Pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich and creamy texture, sweet raisins, and boozy whiskey sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day in New Orleans, and I was visiting my dear friend Marie. She invited me over for a traditional Creole dinner, and I was eager to learn some new recipes. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on sweet tea and chatting about life, Marie began to prepare the most delicious bread pudding I had ever tasted.

I watched in awe as she soaked slices of day-old French bread in a rich custard mixture, infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of rum. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product. As the bread pudding baked in the oven, Marie shared with me the story behind this classic Creole dish.

She explained that bread pudding has been a staple in New Orleans for generations, passed down from one family member to the next. Each family had their own unique twist on the recipe, making it a beloved tradition in Creole culture. Marie learned how to make bread pudding from her grandmother, who learned it from her mother before her. It was a recipe that had been cherished and perfected over time, and Marie was proud to continue the tradition.

As we sat down to enjoy the bread pudding, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Marie graciously shared her recipe with me, and I promised to carry on the tradition in my own family. From that day on, Creole Bread Pudding became a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would make for special occasions and family gatherings.

Over the years, I have made some adjustments to Marie's original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I have experimented with different types of bread, from brioche to challah, and have played around with different spices and flavorings to create a bread pudding that is uniquely mine. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that warm summer day in New Orleans, sitting in Marie's kitchen and learning the secrets of this beloved dish.

One of my favorite memories with Creole Bread Pudding was when I made it for my granddaughter's birthday party. She had heard stories of my adventures in the kitchen and begged me to make her favorite dessert for her special day. I happily obliged, spending hours in the kitchen carefully preparing each element of the dish. As the bread pudding baked, the sweet scent wafted through the house, drawing everyone into the kitchen with eager anticipation.

When I finally pulled the bread pudding out of the oven, golden and crispy on top, my granddaughter's eyes lit up with excitement. She couldn't wait to dig in, and as she took her first bite, a smile spread across her face. She declared it the best bread pudding she had ever tasted, and I felt a swell of pride knowing that I had passed down this cherished recipe to the next generation.

As I grow older, I realize the importance of preserving these culinary traditions and passing them on to future generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, to share stories and create memories that will last a lifetime. And so, as I continue to perfect my recipe for Creole Bread Pudding, I do so with the knowledge that I am carrying on a legacy that has been passed down through the ages.

In the end, it's not just about the food itself, but the love and care that goes into making it. And as I sit down to enjoy a warm slice of bread pudding, surrounded by family and friends, I am reminded of the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with the ones you love. And for that, I am truly grateful.