The Best Bread and Butter Pudding Recipe: A Cozy Dessert for All Occasions

If you’re searching for the best bread and butter pudding recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This delightful, creamy dessert is not just a classic favorite but also a fantastic way to use up leftover bread. Whether you whip it up for a chilly evening or serve it at a festive gathering, this easy recipe will warm hearts and satisfy sweet cravings. So, let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious dish that promises to bring comfort and joy to your table!

A Touch of History

Bread pudding has roots that stretch back centuries, and for good reason. With its humble beginnings as a thrift-conscious choice, this dish transforms stale bread into a creamy, satisfying delight that feels luxurious and indulgent. Perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying family time, bread and butter pudding is a dish that bridges generational gaps in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit during holidays and special occasions—what’s not to love about a warm, custard-soaked dessert?

Ingredients

To make the best bread and butter pudding, gather the following ingredients:

• 6 slices of day-old bread (what you have on hand, sourdough works wonderfully!)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but adds warmth)
• 1/2 cup raisins or sultanas (or your favorite dried fruit)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional, for extra sweetness)

With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a comforting classic that everyone will adore!

Instructions

Here’s how to make this easy bread and butter pudding step-by-step:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the bread: Butter each slice of bread generously on one side. Then, cut the bread into halves or quarters. Arrange half of the bread slices, buttered side up, in a buttered baking dish (about 9×9 inches).
3. Add the dried fruit: Evenly distribute the raisins or sultanas over the layers of bread. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
4. Make the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
5. Pour the custard mixture over the arranged bread. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the rich custard.
6. Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. Cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and enjoy!

Now you have a deliciously easy bread and butter pudding perfect for any occasion!

Tips and Variations

• Add zest: For a citrus twist, consider adding lemon or orange zest to the custard mixture for a refreshing flavor.
• Try different bread: Croissants, brioche, or any leftover bread can take your pudding to a whole new level.
• Boozy option: Incorporate a splash of brandy or bourbon into the custard mix for a delightful adult version.
• Serving suggestion: Serve warm with a drizzle of cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra decadent touch.

This easy bread and butter pudding recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families and friends together.

Try It Today!

Now that you have the perfect recipe at your fingertips, why not gather the ingredients and try this comforting dish today? We can’t wait to hear how it turned out for you! Share your thoughts, tweaks, and photos in the comments below. Happy baking!