This classic bread pudding recipe from Emeril Lagasse is a delightful dessert that transforms stale bread into a rich and comforting dish. With a custard base and a hint of vanilla, it’s a perfect way to use leftover bread.
The recipe is simple and can be customized with your favorite add-ins like raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips to enhance the flavor.
Understanding Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a traditional dessert that transforms leftover bread into a delightful treat.
This dish is characterized by its custard-like texture, which is achieved by soaking bread cubes in a mixture of milk, cream, eggs, and sugar.
The result is a warm, comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Key Ingredients
The foundation of a classic bread pudding lies in its simple yet essential ingredients.
Day-old bread is a must, as it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming overly soggy.
Milk and heavy cream create a rich base, while eggs provide structure.
Sugar, vanilla extract, and a hint of cinnamon add sweetness and warmth, making each bite a delightful experience.
Preparation Steps
Preparing bread pudding is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
Start by preheating the oven and greasing a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Next, whisk together the custard ingredients until smooth, then gently fold in the bread cubes.
Allow the bread to soak for a short period, ensuring it absorbs the flavors before baking.
Baking to Perfection
Baking is where the magic happens.
The mixture is poured into the prepared dish and baked until golden brown on top.
This typically takes around 45 to 50 minutes, resulting in a beautifully set pudding with a slightly gooey center.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, the bread pudding can be served warm or at room temperature.
A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while a drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness.
For those who enjoy a bit of extra indulgence, a scoop of ice cream pairs wonderfully with this comforting dessert.
Customizing Your Bread Pudding
This classic recipe is versatile and can be tailored to suit personal tastes.
Consider adding raisins, nuts, or even chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
Experimenting with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, can also elevate the dish, making it uniquely yours.
Delicious Bread Pudding Recipe
This bread pudding features cubes of bread soaked in a creamy custard mixture, baked until golden and set. It takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old bread, cut into cubes
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Add Bread: Gently fold in the bread cubes and let them soak in the custard mixture for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, fold in the raisins or chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
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