This Bread and Butter Pudding is a nostalgic dessert that combines the richness of custard with the comforting texture of soft, buttery bread. The raisins add a touch of sweetness, while the optional chocolate chunks make it extra indulgent. Served warm from the oven, it’s the perfect dessert to cozy up with during chilly evenings.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can easily make it with everyday ingredients, and it’s a great way to use up stale bread. The combination of custard and bread creates a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and a light dusting of powdered sugar adds the perfect finishing touch.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of white bread (preferably stale)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup golden raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter both sides of the bread slices and cut them into triangles. Arrange them in a buttered 9×9-inch baking dish, slightly overlapping.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Pour the milk and cream into the egg mixture and whisk until combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, pressing gently to soak the bread. Sprinkle golden raisins and optional chopped chocolate on top.
- Let the bread soak in the custard mixture for about 10 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and the custard has set.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Bread and Butter Pudding: A Classic British Dessert
Bread and Butter Pudding is a time-honored British dessert that has stood the test of time, beloved for its comforting texture and rich, custard-like filling. This dessert is made from simple ingredients like bread, butter, eggs, milk, and sugar, making it not only affordable but also a great way to use up leftover bread. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pudding brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to any table. While it might seem humble, the combination of creamy custard and soft, buttered bread is truly indulgent.
The History Behind Bread and Butter Pudding
Bread and Butter Pudding originated in the 17th century as a way to make use of stale bread, which was often seen as waste. Early versions of the dish were more basic, consisting of bread soaked in a simple milk and sugar mixture. Over time, the recipe evolved, with the addition of eggs to create a custard-like texture and the introduction of raisins and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The pudding became a staple of British cuisine, often enjoyed as a hearty dessert or a cozy snack.
It was particularly popular during the Victorian era, when food was more about filling, hearty meals. Today, Bread and Butter Pudding remains a classic dessert served in homes and restaurants across the UK and beyond, often with variations like the inclusion of chocolate or different dried fruits.
Why Bread and Butter Pudding is So Popular
There are several reasons why this dessert continues to be loved by many. One of the main reasons is its simplicity. Unlike other desserts that require complicated techniques or exotic ingredients, Bread and Butter Pudding relies on basic pantry staples. This makes it accessible to virtually anyone, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen.
Another reason for its enduring popularity is its versatility. While the classic recipe features bread, butter, and raisins, it can easily be adapted to suit personal tastes. You can add different types of dried fruit, such as currants or sultanas, or even experiment with adding chocolate, nuts, or a splash of liqueur for an adult version. The possibilities are endless, which makes it a fun and customizable dish to make for different occasions.
Additionally, Bread and Butter Pudding has a comforting, satisfying quality that makes it perfect for colder months. The warm, custard-soaked bread offers a cozy texture, and the slight sweetness pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s the kind of dessert that brings comfort and smiles, whether you’re enjoying it after a meal or as a treat on its own.
The Secret to a Perfect Bread and Butter Pudding
Creating the perfect Bread and Butter Pudding is all about balancing the flavors and textures. The bread is the base of the pudding, so it’s essential to use a good quality bread that can soak up the custard without falling apart. Many people prefer using white bread, though some opt for brioche or challah for a richer taste. Stale bread works particularly well because it can absorb more custard without becoming too soggy.
Butter is another key element in this dish. It’s what gives the pudding its rich, indulgent flavor and helps achieve that golden, crisp top layer when baked. Be sure to spread the butter generously on both sides of the bread to ensure a well-flavored pudding.
The custard mixture of eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spices is where the magic happens. The ratio of milk to cream is important, as using too much cream can make the pudding overly rich, while too little can result in a dry texture. The eggs help bind the custard and create that smooth, velvety consistency. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth to the pudding, while vanilla extract provides a fragrant undertone.
Finally, adding dried fruits like raisins or sultanas provides pops of sweetness throughout the pudding. The raisins soak up the custard, making them plump and juicy, adding a delightful contrast to the soft bread. You can also include chocolate for an added layer of flavor, which is a popular variation.
Serving Suggestions for Bread and Butter Pudding
Bread and Butter Pudding is traditionally served warm from the oven, dusted with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. This classic presentation is perfect for those who enjoy the rich custard texture. However, you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the dessert.
For a more indulgent treat, consider serving it with fresh berries or a few spoonfuls of fruit compote. The tartness of the berries contrasts beautifully with the sweet, creamy pudding, creating a well-rounded dessert experience. Another option is to serve it with a glass of dessert wine or a rich coffee, both of which complement the comforting qualities of the pudding.
Variations of Bread and Butter Pudding
While the traditional version of Bread and Butter Pudding is simple and delicious, there are plenty of ways to get creative with the dish. One popular variation is to use different types of bread. Brioche, for example, creates a richer, more decadent pudding, while whole wheat or multigrain bread can add a nutty flavor and a bit more texture. If you prefer a dairy-free or vegan version, you can substitute the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream, and use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacement.
You can also get adventurous with the flavorings and fillings. Try adding citrus zest like lemon or orange for a fresh, zesty kick. Spices like cardamom or ginger can also add an exotic twist to the pudding, while the addition of nuts such as toasted almonds or pecans can introduce crunch and texture.
For those who love chocolate, a chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding is an irresistible variation. Simply add chunks of your favorite chocolate into the layers of bread before baking, allowing it to melt into the custard. You can also use chocolate chips or cocoa powder to infuse the pudding with rich chocolate flavor.
Bread and Butter Pudding for Special Occasions
Though this dish is often thought of as a humble, everyday dessert, it can also be dressed up for special occasions. Bread and Butter Pudding makes a great dessert for Christmas, Easter, or other holiday gatherings. During the festive season, you can add dried cranberries, candied orange peel, or even a splash of brandy to make the pudding feel more indulgent. It’s a wonderful dish to share with family and friends, as it can be easily doubled or tripled to serve a crowd.
If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving individual portions of Bread and Butter Pudding in small ramekins for an elegant touch. You can garnish each one with a few fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon to give it an extra pop of color and flavor.
Conclusion
Bread and Butter Pudding is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and delicious. Its rich custard base, buttery bread layers, and sweet raisins make it a timeless favorite that’s enjoyed by many across the globe. Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or experiment with different variations, this pudding is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings and provide a warm, comforting end to any meal. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or cozy nights in, Bread and Butter Pudding is sure to remain a beloved dessert for generations to come.