Old-fashioned Bread Pudding

Old-fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe from England | Milk, Sugar, Eggs, Cinnamon, Raisins

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

Introduction

Old-fashioned bread pudding is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. This comforting dish is made with simple ingredients like bread, milk, eggs, and sugar, and is often flavored with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The result is a rich and creamy pudding that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Bread pudding has been around for centuries and is thought to have originated as a way to use up stale bread. The dish has roots in many different cultures, with variations found in British, French, and American cuisine. Over time, bread pudding has evolved to include a wide range of ingredients, from dried fruits and nuts to chocolate and caramel.

Ingredients

3 cups of soft bread cubes (use 4 cups for a firmer pudding)
2 cups of milk, scalded with 0.25 cup of butter
0.5 cup of sugar
2 eggs, slightly beaten
0.25 tsp of salt
1 tsp of cinnamon or nutmeg
0.5 cup of seedless raisins

How to prepare

Grease a baking dish with a capacity of 1.5 qt (1.42 liter). Add bread cubes to the greased baking dish.
In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, butter, sugar, eggs, salt, and either cinnamon or nutmeg.
Add raisins to the mixture.
Pour the mixture over the bread cubes and gently combine them.
Place the baking dish in a pan filled with hot water.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 40 to 45 minutes.

Variations

Chocolate: Add 0.5 cup of chocolate chips instead of raisins. Omit the spices. (Although I have tried it, cinnamon does taste good with this variation).
Butterscotch: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
Add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a different twist.
Drizzle the bread pudding with a bourbon or rum sauce for a boozy kick.

Notes

You can use non-fat dry milk in place of regular milk. If you do this, whisk together the milk and water to make 2 cup. Add the butter. Heat until steaming in a microwave-safe measuring cup in the microwave oven. Follow directions as given.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use day-old bread for the best texture. Fresh bread can become too soggy when soaked in the custard mixture.

- Experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, for a richer flavor.

- For a more decadent dessert, serve the bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Old-fashioned bread pudding can be served warm or cold, depending on personal preference. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the bread pudding in a water bath helps to ensure a moist and creamy texture. The steam created by the water bath prevents the pudding from drying out in the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

- Replace the butter with coconut oil or margarine for a vegan option.

- Swap the raisins for dried cherries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Old-fashioned bread pudding can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve old-fashioned bread pudding in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Old-fashioned bread pudding pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience. For a more indulgent treat, serve with a glass of dessert wine or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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 microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds or bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of old-fashioned bread pudding contains approximately 300 calories. This dessert is a satisfying treat that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of old-fashioned bread pudding contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling daily activities.

Fats

Old-fashioned bread pudding is a rich dessert that contains approximately 20 grams of fat per serving. While high in fat, this dish can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

Each serving of old-fashioned bread pudding contains approximately 6 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Old-fashioned bread pudding is not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals. However, it does contain small amounts of calcium, iron, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Old-fashioned bread pudding contains dairy (milk and butter) and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Old-fashioned bread pudding is a delicious dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. While it may not be the healthiest option, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Old-fashioned bread pudding is a timeless dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich and creamy texture, warm spices, and sweet raisins, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy a slice of this comforting treat with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful end to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was an old-fashioned recipe for bread pudding that had been passed down through generations in my family. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could almost smell the warm, comforting aroma of the pudding baking in the oven.

I remember the day I first learned to make this recipe like it was yesterday. I was just a young girl, eager to learn the ways of the kitchen from my grandmother. She was a master chef in her own right, with a vast collection of recipes that she had gathered over the years from various places and people.

On that particular day, my grandmother pulled out an old, weathered cookbook from her collection. It was filled with handwritten notes and splatters of ingredients, a true testament to the many meals that had been created from its pages. She flipped through the pages until she found the recipe for bread pudding, and a smile spread across her face.

"This recipe has been in our family for generations," she said, her voice filled with nostalgia. "It's a simple dish, but one that brings so much comfort and joy."

Together, we gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. My grandmother guided me through each step, teaching me the art of mixing and stirring, of measuring and pouring. As the pudding baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the sweet scent of cinnamon and vanilla.

When the pudding was finally finished, my grandmother scooped out a generous portion onto a plate and handed it to me. I took a bite, savoring the warm, custardy texture and the subtle sweetness of the raisins. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, a perfect blend of flavors and textures that warmed me from the inside out.

From that day on, I was hooked. I made the bread pudding recipe countless times, experimenting with different variations and additions. Sometimes I would add a splash of rum or a handful of chocolate chips, other times I would top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy and comfort of this simple dish far and wide. Each time I made it, I felt a connection to my grandmother and to all the generations of women who had come before me, passing down their knowledge and love through the art of cooking.

And now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing the bread pudding recipe for my own grandchildren, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude. This recipe is more than just a dish – it's a legacy, a connection to my past and a bridge to the future.

As I take the pudding out of the oven and set it on the table, the sweet aroma fills the room, wrapping us in a warm embrace. My grandchildren eagerly dig in, their faces lighting up with joy and satisfaction.

And as they savor each bite, I know that the tradition lives on – that the love and memories of generations past will continue to nourish and sustain us for years to come. And for that, I am truly grateful.