Bread Pudding Recipe with Savory Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

Name: bread pudding recipe
Prep time: PT-486826H31M31S
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 6 cups stale bread cubes; – 2 cups whole milk; – ½ cup granulated sugar; – 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; – 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; – ½ teaspoon salt; – 3 large eggs; – 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; – raisins; – chocolate chips

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Why You’ll Love This bread pudding recipe

Ease of preparation: This bread pudding recipe is delightfully simple with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps. It’s perfect for home cooks who want a comforting dessert or breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. The method allows you to have a rich dish ready in under an hour.
Health benefits: Incorporating wholesome ingredients like whole milk, eggs, and cinnamon, this recipe provides essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, and antioxidants, balancing indulgence with nourishment for a satisfying treat.
Versatility: Easily tailored to accommodate various dietary needs, this bread pudding recipe adapts well for vegan versions using plant-based milks and egg substitutes, gluten-free breads, or lower-calorie sweeteners and milks without losing flavor or texture.
Distinctive flavor: The blend of stale bread soaked in a spiced custard and baked to a golden finish creates a rich, comforting flavor profile. Paired with a creamy homemade vanilla sauce, it offers a memorable sweet and cozy taste that stands apart.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This bread pudding recipe
2. Essential Ingredients for bread pudding recipe
3. How to Prepare the Perfect bread pudding recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your bread pudding recipe
5. Mastering bread pudding recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store bread pudding recipe: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About bread pudding recipe
8. bread pudding recipe

Essential Ingredients for bread pudding recipe

6 cups stale bread cubes (about 2-inch pieces) – provides the base texture and absorbs the custard
2 cups whole milk – adds creaminess and richness
½ cup granulated sugar – sweetens the custard
3 tablespoons unsalted butter – contributes flavor and moisture
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – lends warm, aromatic spice
½ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor
3 large eggs – binds ingredients and enriches custard texture
1 tablespoon vanilla extract – deepens flavor complexity
Optional mix-ins: raisins or chocolate chips – add variety and bursts of flavor

Special Dietary Options:

Vegan: Substitute whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk and replace eggs with flax or chia eggs.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread cubes to maintain texture with dietary restrictions.
Low-calorie: Opt for low-fat milk and sugar alternatives like stevia or erythritol to reduce calories.

How to Prepare the Perfect bread pudding recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

First Step: Prepare your baking dish and bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter an 8-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking. Cut 6 cups of stale bread into roughly 2-inch cubes and place them evenly into the dish.

Second Step: Warm the custard mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups whole milk, ½ cup sugar, 3 tablespoons butter, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Third Step: Combine eggs and vanilla

In a mixing bowl, whisk 3 large eggs. Slowly pour the warmed milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to temper and prevent curdling. Stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for aromatic depth.

Fourth Step: Soak the bread cubes

Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish, using a spatula to carefully press the cubes down, ensuring they absorb the custard thoroughly. Let the mixture sit for 20-30 minutes to promote a fluffy and creamy pudding.

Fifth Step: Bake the pudding

Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid overbaking to keep moisture intact.

Final Step: Prepare and serve with vanilla sauce

While the pudding bakes, prepare the homemade vanilla sauce to complement it: combine 1 cup whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming and sugar dissolves. Dissolve 2 tablespoons cornstarch in ¼ cup water (or bourbon/rum for a twist) and stir in. Cook until thickened, then remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract with salt to taste. Serve bread pudding warm with generous sauce drizzled on top and extra on the side for dipping.

Tip: Using stale bread is key for custard absorption. If fresh, dry in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 10 minutes or leave out overnight.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your bread pudding recipe

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan alternative that preserves custard texture.
Use plant-based milks such as almond, oat, or soy milk instead of whole milk for lactose intolerance or vegan adjustments.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Add fresh, diced apples or raisins to the bread pudding to infuse natural sweetness and texture variation.
Substitute ground cinnamon with nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for unique warm flavor twists.
Use maple syrup or agave in place of granulated sugar for varied sweetness profiles suitable for natural sweetener preferences.

Mastering bread pudding recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro cooking techniques: Toast bread cubes lightly in the oven before soaking to add crispness and depth to the pudding.
Flavor variations: Mix in espresso powder, orange zest, or chocolate chips to create innovative flavor profiles beyond the classic recipe.
Presentation tips: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or sprinkle powdered sugar for an elegant, inviting dessert finish.
Make-ahead options: Assemble the bread pudding the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh the next day to save time while enhancing custard absorption.

How to Store bread pudding recipe: Best Practices

Storage Method	Details	Duration
Refrigeration	Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve moisture and flavor.	Up to 3 days
Freezing	Wrap bread pudding tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for longer storage.	Up to 2 months
Reheating	Reheat refrigerated or thawed pudding in an oven preheated to 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes to restore softness and warmth.	As needed
Meal Prep	Portion pudding into individual containers for convenient reheating and consistent servings.	Varies

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About bread pudding recipe

How can I tell when my bread pudding is fully cooked?

To check if bread pudding is done, insert a clean knife or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the pudding is cooked through. The top should be golden brown, and the custard mixture should be set but still soft. Avoid overbaking, as it can dry out the pudding.

What kind of bread should I use for bread pudding?

Day-old or slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the custard mixture without falling apart. Common choices include French bread, brioche, challah, or even croissants for a richer texture. Avoid overly fresh bread, as it can make the pudding soggy.

How do I store leftover bread pudding to keep it fresh?

Let your bread pudding cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can bread pudding be made ahead of time?

Yes, bread pudding can be prepared ahead. You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it before baking to let the bread soak up the custard fully. Alternatively, bake it in advance, cool completely, and then store it refrigerated or frozen. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

What sauces pair well with bread pudding, and can I use them for other desserts?

Classic bread pudding sauces often include a creamy vanilla sauce made with milk, cream, butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Caramel and maple syrup also complement it nicely. These sauces can double as toppings for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream, adding a rich, sweet touch to various desserts.

Bread Pudding Recipe with a Savory Twist Featuring Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry