Classic Bread Pudding Recipe: Easy Homemade Dessert

Classic Bread Pudding recipe. Learn how to make this delicious homemade dessert, perfect for using up stale bread and sweetening your day with flavor and nostalgia.

Summary

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips and Variations
• CHEF’S TIPS

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

• 500g stale bread (French or sandwich bread)
• 500ml milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) coconut milk (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the sugar and heat over medium heat. Let it melt without stirring until it forms a golden caramel. Carefully add the water (as it will splatter) and stir until the sugar lumps dissolve. Pour the caramel into a pudding mold (20cm diameter) and spread it evenly over the mold.
2. Prepare the Pudding: In a blender, combine the chopped bread, milk, eggs, sugar, coconut milk (if using), vanilla, and lemon zest (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Bake the Pudding: Pour the mixture into the caramel-lined mold. Cover the mold with aluminum foil. Bake in a water bath in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Chill and Unmold: Remove from the oven, let it cool completely, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Unmold the Bread Pudding and serve chilled.

Tips and Variations

• For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter.
• Substitute regular milk with plant-based milk for a lactose-free version of Bread Pudding.
• Add candied fruits or raisins to the batter for a more festive version.
• Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a special touch.
• For a creamier Bread Pudding, use brioche bread.

CHEF’S TIPS

To ensure your Bread Pudding turns out perfectly, the choice of bread is crucial. Denser breads, like day-old French bread, provide a firmer, rustic texture, while softer breads, such as sandwich bread or brioche, result in a creamier, smoother pudding. When soaking the bread in milk, make sure it’s completely moistened but not soggy, to prevent the pudding from becoming heavy. Adding a hint of lemon or orange zest to the batter enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness, providing a pleasant citrus aroma. The water bath is essential for even cooking, ensuring the pudding bakes gently without burning. And finally, patience is key: wait for the pudding to cool completely before unmolding to prevent it from breaking. With these tips, your Bread Pudding will be a guaranteed success!