Old Time Bread Pudding

Old Time Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that transforms stale bread into a warm and comforting treat. This classic recipe is perfect for using up leftover bread while creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. With a custard-like base, sweet notes, and chewy raisins, it’s sure to please everyone around the table.

Why make this recipe?

Bread pudding is a fantastic way to minimize food waste while enjoying a hearty dessert. It’s easy to prepare, requires common ingredients, and can be customized to fit your taste. Whether you’re having a family gathering or simply craving something sweet, Old Time Bread Pudding brings a sense of nostalgia and coziness to any occasion.

How to prepare Old Time Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

• Stale bread, cubed 🍞
• Milk 🥛
• Eggs 🥚
• Sugar 🍬
• Butter, melted 🧈
• Dark raisins or sultanas 🍇
• Vanilla extract 🍦
• Ground cinnamon (optional) 🌿
• Nutmeg (optional) 🌰

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) 🔥.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cubed stale bread and raisins.
3. In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and spices if using. Whisk until well combined 🍽️.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the bread and raisins, gently stirring to ensure all pieces are soaked.
5. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set ⏲️.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.

How to serve Old Time Bread Pudding

Serve your warm bread pudding with a drizzle of cream or a scoop of ice cream on top. A sprinkle of cinnamon or sugar can also add an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy it as a comforting dessert or even a special breakfast treat!

How to store Old Time Bread Pudding

Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before storing. Cover it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or microwave.

Tips for preparing Old Time Bread Pudding

• Use any type of stale bread, whether it’s white, whole grain, or even croissants for a richer flavor.
• Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the mix for added texture and sweetness.
• If you like a richer pudding, use cream instead of milk or a mix of both.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding: Add a cup of chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
• Fruit and Nut: Mix in chopped apples, pears, or nuts for added flavor and crunch.
• Spiced Bread Pudding: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?

   • You can, but stale bread absorbs the custard better, giving a nicer texture. If you only have fresh bread, you can toast it lightly before use.

2. What if I don’t have eggs?

   • You can replace eggs with unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg).

3. How can I make it gluten-free?

   • Use gluten-free bread in the recipe to cater to gluten-sensitive individuals. Make sure to check all other ingredients for gluten content.

Old Time Bread Pudding is not only a delicious treat but also a delightful way to cherish time-honored family traditions. Give it a try and savor every bite! 🍰