Few desserts can evoke the warmth and coziness of home quite like Bread and Butter Pudding. This traditional dish has stood the test of time, comforting generations with its blend of sweet custard, subtly spiced cinnamon, and rich, butter-soaked bread. Originating in the 18th century as a frugal way to use up stale bread, this humble pudding has evolved into a beloved comfort food, often served as the perfect end to a hearty meal. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover bread or simply craving something nostalgic and satisfying, Bread and Butter Pudding offers a delicious way to indulge.
A Rich History: From Humble Beginnings to Timeless Comfort
This recipe has roots in the kitchens of Europe, where households used simple ingredients to transform stale bread into something truly delightful. The combination of rich custard made from milk, cream, eggs, and sugar, with the contrasting textures of buttered bread, created a dessert that was not only economical but also a crowd-pleaser. As the recipe spread, variations began to appear with added spices, dried fruits, and even different types of bread—each region putting its own unique twist on this cherished classic.
While the recipe may have evolved, the essence of Bread and Butter Pudding remains the same: a dish that brings people together, providing warmth, comfort, and a touch of sweetness in every bite. Today, this pudding continues to be a popular dessert, gracing the tables of both home cooks and professional chefs alike.
Ingredients for the Perfect Bread and Butter Pudding
To create a dish that is rich in flavor and texture, it’s essential to use the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for our version of this classic dessert:
What You Need:
8 slices of bread (preferably stale or day-old)
1/3 cup raisins or sultanas
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1.5 cups whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
2 teaspoons melted butter (for brushing the bread)
A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth and spice)
Vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Bread and Butter Pudding
This recipe is all about layering flavors and textures. Follow these steps for a pudding that’s golden, crisp on top, and decadently soft inside.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the pudding to perfection, ensuring a golden top and a moist, custard-like interior. Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter, making sure the surface is fully covered to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Start by removing the crusts from the bread slices. If the bread is a little stale, that’s perfect—it will absorb the custard more effectively. Spread a generous amount of melted butter on both sides of each slice to add richness. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden top layer that makes the pudding so irresistible.
Step 3: Layer the Bread and Add the Raisins
In your prepared baking dish, layer half of the buttered bread slices. Arrange them evenly, overlapping slightly if necessary. Sprinkle raisins and ground cinnamon over this first layer. The cinnamon will infuse the bread with a gentle, warming spice, while the raisins will add little bursts of sweetness throughout the pudding.
Place the remaining bread slices on top, arranging them in the same manner as the first layer. This creates a beautiful texture when baked, with the top layer turning crisp while the bottom soaks up the custard.
Step 4: Make the Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, eggs, and granulated sugar. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. If desired, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a touch of extra flavor. For those who enjoy a slightly more complex taste, a pinch of nutmeg can be added as well.
Step 5: Pour the Custard Over the Bread
Slowly and evenly pour the custard mixture over the bread layers, ensuring all slices are thoroughly soaked. The bread should absorb the custard, making each slice soft and flavorful. If any bread floats, press it down gently with the back of a spoon to help it absorb the liquid.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Before baking, let the pudding sit for about 10–15 minutes. This resting time allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, ensuring a rich, creamy texture once baked.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard has set. You’ll know it’s done when the pudding jiggles slightly in the center, but is firm around the edges. For a more caramelized top, sprinkle a little extra sugar over the pudding halfway through baking. This will create a lovely crunch when you take that first bite.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pudding from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. The cooling time helps the custard set further, making it easier to cut into perfect slices. Serve warm, either on its own or with a drizzle of custard, cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Bread and Butter Pudding is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your tastes or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ways to put your own twist on this classic recipe:
For a more decadent version, use brioche or croissants instead of regular bread. The added richness from these buttery breads will take the pudding to the next level.
Try adding chocolate chips in place of or alongside the raisins for a more indulgent treat. The chocolate will melt into the custard, creating a luscious, rich dessert.
Add fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears between the layers of bread. The fruit will soften and caramelize during baking, adding a natural sweetness and contrasting texture.
Infuse the custard with a splash of liqueur, such as rum or brandy, for a more grown-up dessert with a hint of warmth and depth.
Enjoying the Comfort of Bread and Butter Pudding
No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Bread and Butter Pudding is the ultimate comfort food. The blend of crisp, buttery bread and soft, creamy custard, combined with the gentle sweetness of raisins and the warming spices of cinnamon, creates a dessert that is both simple and satisfying. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover bread while indulging in a timeless classic that will have everyone asking for seconds.