bread and butter pudding

Category: Dessert / British Classics
Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy to Medium

 Introduction

Bread and Butter Pudding is a traditional British dessert that transforms simple bread slices into a luscious, custardy baked treat. Layers of buttered bread soaked in a sweet, creamy egg custard, studded with raisins or other dried fruits, then baked until golden and bubbly — this dessert is the ultimate comfort food.

Perfect for using up leftover bread, it’s simple to make but feels indulgently special. Whether served warm with cream or custard, or cooled with a dusting of powdered sugar, bread and butter pudding is a timeless crowd-pleaser.

Ready to bring this classic dessert to your table? Let’s get started!

 Preparation & Cooking Time

 Ingredients

• 10 slices white bread (stale or fresh, crusts removed)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup raisins or sultanas (optional, soaked in warm water or rum for 10 minutes)

• 4 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

 Recipe Intensity

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Butter each slice of bread generously on one side.

3. If using raisins or sultanas, soak them in warm water or rum for 10 minutes, then drain.

Step 2: Assemble the Pudding

1. Butter an ovenproof dish (about 8×8 inches or similar).

2. Arrange a layer of bread slices in the dish, buttered side up, slightly overlapping.

3. Sprinkle some raisins evenly over the bread layer.

4. Add another layer of bread, again buttered side up, and top with more raisins. Continue layering until all bread and raisins are used, finishing with bread on top.

Step 3: Make the Custard

1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until smooth.

2. Stir in the milk, cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined.

Step 4: Pour the Custard & Rest

1. Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread layers, pressing the bread gently down to soak it well.

2. Let the pudding sit for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard fully.

Step 5: Bake the Pudding

1. Place the pudding in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The custard should be set and the top golden brown.

2. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes (optional).

2. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm with cream, custard, or ice cream.

 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store: Cover leftover pudding tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

• Freeze: You can freeze the pudding before baking in a freezer-safe dish for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

Note: Nutrition varies depending on exact ingredients and portion size.

 Tips for the Best Bread and Butter Pudding

• Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better texture and soaking.

• Butter generously for a rich flavor and to prevent sogginess.

• Soak dried fruits for plump, juicy bites.

• Don’t rush the soaking step; letting the custard soak into the bread before baking yields the best custardy texture.

• Cover with foil if browning too fast to prevent burning.

• Serve with crème anglaise, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

 Final Thoughts

Classic Bread and Butter Pudding is an unbeatable dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. It’s a perfect way to transform simple pantry staples into an elegant treat that’s equally nostalgic and delicious.

Whether you’re making it for family dinners, holiday feasts, or a cozy night in, this pudding never fails to satisfy sweet cravings. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or reheated, and watch it become a favorite in your recipe collection.