Sweet Bread Pudding with Raisins
Ingredients
- 300g (10 cups) of stale bread, cubed
- 120g (3/4 cup) raisins
- 500ml (2 cups) whole milk
- 120ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- 100g (1/2 cup) packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp (1.5g) ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp (0.75g) ground nutmeg
- 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
Introduction
Welcome to the comforting world of Sweet Bread Pudding with Raisins, a classic dessert that elegantly bridges the gap between simplicity and indulgence. Often associated with warmth and nostalgia, bread pudding transforms stale bread into something magical with the added sweetness of raisins and a creamy custard base. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a story of creativity where leftover bread finds new life, bringing joy to both the cook and the eater.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Baking Dish (9×13 inches or 23×33 cm)
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk
- Oven
- Butter Knife or Pastry Brush
- Cooling Rack
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease the baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, soak the raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly before adding to the mixture to ensure they are plump and juicy.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add the cubed bread and plumped raisins to the custard mixture, gently stirring to coat all pieces. Allow the bread to soak in the mixture for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Pour the saturated bread and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Drizzle the melted butter over the top for a rich finish.
Step 6: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Remove the pudding from the oven and cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to set further and makes serving easier. Enjoy warm, paired with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
Conclusion
Sweet Bread Pudding with Raisins is a testament to the transformative power of simple ingredients. What once was leftover bread becomes a luscious dessert bursting with comforting flavors. This dish embodies a beautiful balance of tradition and creativity, perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings. Embrace the aroma and warmth of this delightful pudding, and let it transport you to a place of culinary bliss. We hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to ours.
