Hicham Bread and Butter Pudding is a timeless dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and indulgent treat. With its warm, custardy texture and hints of cinnamon and raisins, this pudding is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread
- 1/3 cup raisins
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
Instructions
Preparing the Bread
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Butter the Bread: Spread the softened butter evenly over one side of each bread slice.
- Arrange Bread Slices: Cut the bread slices into triangles or quarters and arrange them in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the bread slices.
Making the Custard Mixture
- Mix Milk and Cream: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and heavy whipping cream until well combined.
- Add Eggs and Sugar: Add the eggs and granulated sugar to the milk mixture. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Flavor with Cinnamon: Stir in the cinnamon, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the custard mixture.
Assembling the Pudding
- Pour Custard over Bread: Slowly pour the custard mixture over the arranged bread slices, ensuring that all the bread is evenly soaked.
- Let it Sit: Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture for about 10-15 minutes, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure thorough absorption.
Baking the Pudding
- Sprinkle with Sugar: Sprinkle some granulated sugar over the top of the bread and custard mixture for a sweet, crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread and butter pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes:
- Bread Selection: Use day-old bread or slightly stale bread for best results, as it will absorb the custard mixture more readily without becoming mushy.
- Custard Absorption: Allow the bread slices to soak in the custard mixture for sufficient time to ensure a creamy texture throughout the pudding.
Variations:
- Flavor Variation: Experiment with different flavorings such as nutmeg, vanilla extract, or almond extract for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Fruit Swap: Substitute raisins with other dried fruits such as cranberries, apricots, or cherries for a variation in flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?
A: While traditional bread and butter pudding is made with white bread, you can use other types of bread such as brioche, challah, or even croissants for a richer texture and flavor.
Q: Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the bread and custard mixture ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. Assemble the pudding just before baking to prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.
Q: Can I freeze leftover pudding?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover bread and butter pudding for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
A: While whole milk provides a richer and creamier texture, you can use low-fat milk or even almond milk as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Q: Can I omit the raisins?
A: Yes, you can omit the raisins if you prefer or substitute them with other dried fruits or nuts for added flavor and texture.
Bread and Butter Pudding is a classic dessert that never fails to impress with its simplicity and comforting flavors. With its golden brown crust, creamy custard filling, and hints of cinnamon and raisins, this pudding is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served warm for dessert or enjoyed as a sweet breakfast treat, this timeless dish is perfect for any occasion. Try making this delightful bread and butter pudding today and savor the irresistible combination of buttery bread and creamy custard!
