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Delicious Bread Pudding: Simple, Homemade and Perfect Recipe

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How to Make Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is a beloved classic dessert that transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a creamy, indulgent treat. This recipe is perfect for giving leftover bread a second life, offering a rich and satisfying way to avoid waste while delighting your taste buds. With a golden caramel base and a custardy interior, bread pudding is versatile enough to serve as a dessert or even a comforting snack.

In this article, we’ll guide you through each step of making this traditional dessert, provide helpful tips for perfect results, and answer common questions about the process.

Why You’ll Love This Bread Pudding Recipe

  1. Economical and Practical: Uses leftover bread, reducing waste.
  2. Rich and Creamy: Sweetened condensed milk and whole milk combine for an ultra-creamy texture.
  3. Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, so no fancy shopping is required.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

  • 3 stale bread rolls (such as French bread or similar)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
  • 2 cans whole milk (measured using the sweetened condensed milk can)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon margarine

For the Caramel:

  • 1 cup sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel

  1. Heat a bundt pan directly on the stove over medium heat.
  2. Add 1 cup of sugar and stir occasionally until it melts and turns into a golden caramel.
  3. Carefully tilt the pan to coat the bottom and sides evenly with caramel.
  4. Remove the pan from heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Blend the Pudding Mixture

  1. Tear the stale bread rolls into small pieces and place them in a blender.
  2. Add 4 eggs, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, sugar, and margarine.
  3. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 3: Assemble the Pudding

  1. Pour the blended mixture over the cooled caramel in the bundt pan.
  2. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to trap steam and ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Bake the Pudding

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. Place the bundt pan in a large baking dish filled with hot water, creating a water bath (bain-marie). The water should reach about halfway up the sides of the bundt pan.
  3. Bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Unmold

  1. Remove the bundt pan from the oven and allow the pudding to cool completely at room temperature.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up the pudding.
  3. Run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the pudding, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate.
See also  Creamy Mushroom Soup

Tips for the Perfect Bread Pudding

1. Use Stale Bread

Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better, ensuring a rich and creamy texture. Fresh bread may become overly soggy.

2. Ensure Even Baking

The water bath helps to regulate heat, preventing the pudding from drying out or cracking. Always use hot water when setting up the bain-marie.

3. Don’t Overbake

Overbaking can cause the pudding to become rubbery. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean but slightly moist.

4. Refrigerate Before Serving

Chilling the pudding enhances its flavor and makes it easier to slice.

5. Experiment with Add-Ins

For added flavor, consider mixing in raisins, chocolate chips, or a splash of rum extract into the pudding mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, any type of bread works, but sturdy bread like French rolls or brioche yields the best results. Avoid overly soft bread as it can disintegrate in the custard.

2. Do I have to use a bundt pan?

No, you can use any oven-safe dish. However, a bundt pan gives the pudding a beautiful presentation.

3. Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bread pudding can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and unmold it just before serving.

4. How should I store leftovers?

Wrap the pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze bread pudding?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

6. What can I serve with bread pudding?

Bread pudding pairs beautifully with a drizzle of caramel sauce, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Final Thoughts

Bread pudding is a timeless dessert that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something extraordinary. With its creamy texture, sweet caramel, and rich flavor, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Whether you’re repurposing leftover bread or simply craving a comforting treat, this recipe is a must-try. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the simplicity and decadence of homemade bread pudding!

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