Bread and butter pudding

Baking dish - Made from high durable quality stoneware, this one from Mason Cash is perfect for baking and serving. You can find it at Amazon.

Mixing bowl - This must-have set of three multi-sized stainless steel mixing bowls comes with airtight plastic lids, too! See more details at Amazon.

Bread Selection

While the recipe suggests using any type of bread, consider the texture and flavor you prefer. Slightly thicker slices of bread, like brioche, challah, or even whole wheat, can add a new dimension to your pudding. These bread varieties are excellent at soaking up the custard, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Butter Up

Generously buttering the bread slices is key to achieving that luxurious and buttery taste in every bite. Spread softened butter evenly over each slice, making sure to reach the corners. Don't be shy – this step enhances the overall richness of the pudding.

Soak Time

The bread needs time to absorb the custard mixture fully. Allow it to soak for about 10 to 15 minutes before baking. This soaking period ensures that the custard is evenly distributed, resulting in a creamy, tender interior and a crispy, golden crust.

Customise

Part of the joy of making bread and butter pudding is the opportunity to get creative with your mix-ins. Consider adding a handful of chocolate chips for a delightful gooey surprise, or toss in some chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to add a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Layering Perfection

The layering process is crucial for an evenly distributed and flavour-packed pudding. As you layer the buttered bread slices, sprinkle a bit of sugar and your chosen mix-ins, such as sultanas or dried cranberries, between the layers. This ensures that every slice has a balanced amount of sweetness and texture.

Custard Ratio

Achieving the right custard-to-bread ratio is essential for the pudding's texture. The custard should be enough to thoroughly coat the bread without overwhelming it. If you prefer a creamier pudding, you can increase the number of eggs or use a bit less bread.

How to Make Pudding Simple?

Creating a delicious pudding doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, bread and butter pudding is known for its simplicity. The basic steps involve layering buttered bread with sugar and optional ingredients like sultanas (raisins) or other dried fruits. Then, a mixture of eggs and milk is poured over the bread, allowing it to soak in and create a luscious custard-like texture when baked. The result is a warm, cosy dessert that's both nostalgic and satisfying. Feel free to add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavour.

How to Make Bread and Butter Pudding without Cream?

If you're looking to make a buttery pudding without cream, you're in luck. The traditional bread and butter pudding recipe doesn't actually require cream. Instead, it relies on a mixture of eggs and milk to create the custard base. Whole or semi-skimmed milk works perfectly for this purpose. The milk's natural fat content contributes to the richness of the pudding without the need for additional cream. So, rest assured that you can enjoy a delightful bread and butter pudding without worrying about cream.

Apricot Glaze

Take your bread and butter pudding to the level of culinary artistry by adding an apricot glaze. This simple yet effective technique not only adds a beautiful shine but also infuses the dessert with a delicate fruity essence.

• To master this method, warm apricot jam in a saucepan over low heat until it becomes slightly runny.
• Once your pudding is assembled in the baking dish, gently brush the warmed apricot jam over the top using a pastry brush. This step not only adds an appealing finish but also helps to lock in moisture, ensuring a soft and sumptuous texture.

Citrus Zest

Embark on a journey of refreshing flavours by incorporating citrus zest into your custard mixture. Citrus zest brings a vibrant, aromatic quality to the pudding, enhancing its overall appeal.

• To nail this technique, use a fine grater or a zester to extract the outer layer of the citrus fruit's peel.
• Be cautious not to include the bitter white pith.
• Whisk the zest into the custard mixture before pouring it over the bread layers. The result will be a pudding with a bright, tangy undertone that perfectly balances its rich and buttery base.

Chocolate Delight

Elevate your bread and butter pudding to a realm of decadence by introducing chocolate into the equation. This method involves using chocolate bread or adding chocolate chips between the bread layers.

• To execute this variation, you'll want to select high-quality chocolate, preferably semi-sweet or dark, to complement the pudding's sweetness.
• If using chocolate bread, layer it alongside your buttered slices.
• If using chocolate chips, sprinkle a handful between each layer of bread. As the pudding bakes, the chocolate will melt, infusing every corner with irresistible pockets of creamy, chocolaty goodness.

Savoury Twist

For those seeking a departure from the traditional sweet rendition, a savoury bread and butter pudding offers an exciting alternative. The key is to balance the richness of the custard with savoury ingredients that tantalise the taste buds.

• To execute this twist, swap out the sugar for grated cheese – cheddar, gruyère, or a combination of your favourites.
• Additionally, incorporate sautéed mushrooms, caramelised onions, or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth and complexity.
• Keep the custard mixture simple, omitting any sugar or sweet spices. This unique take on bread pudding makes for an impressive appetiser or even a brunch centrepiece.