Bread Pudding Recipe – Easy & Elevated

Ingredients:

• The Bread Basket (Choose a Delicious Mix):
  • 4 cups cubed bread (brioche, challah, French bread, or a combination)
  • 2 cups cubed croissants (optional, for a richer flavor)
• The Custard Symphony:
  • 6 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk for extra richness)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
• Flavor Boosters (Optional):
  • ½ cup chopped dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, cherries)
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds)
  • ½ cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon grated orange zest

Directions:

Step 1

Bread Brigade: Cube your chosen bread and croissants (if using) into bite-sized pieces for this delicious bread pudding recipe. You can use a mix of fresh or slightly stale bread for a variety of textures.

Step 2 

Whisk Away: In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugars, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Step 3

Flavor Fusion: (Optional) Gently fold in your chosen mix-ins, like chopped dried fruit, nuts, chocolate chips or orange zest to personalize your bread pudding recipe.

Step 4

Soak it Up: Pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to ensure all the bread pieces are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the custard.

Step 5

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared dish and get ready to bake this delightful bread pudding recipe!

Step 6

Water Bath Magic: For an extra creamy and custardy texture, place the baking dish inside a larger pan and carefully add enough hot water to reach halfway up the sides of the baking dish.

Step 7

Baking Bliss: Bake the bread pudding for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly puffed.

Step 8

Cooling Comfort: Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Step 9

Serving Sensations: Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch.

Tips:

• Bread Choice Matters: Using a variety of breads adds complexity and texture to the bread pudding. Consider including some richer breads like brioche or challah.
• Soaking is Key: Allowing the bread to soak properly ensures a moist and flavorful final product.
• Water Bath for the Win: The water bath creates a steamy environment that results in a luxuriously creamy texture.
• Get Creative: This recipe is a springboard for endless flavor combinations. Experiment with different mix-ins and toppings to find your perfect bread pudding creation.

Share your favorite bread pudding flavor combinations and baking tips in the comments below!

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