How to Perfect Bread and Butter Pudding Every Time

Dive into the warm, comforting world of Bread and butter pudding, a classic dessert that transforms simple slices of bread into a luscious, golden delight. This recipe combines creamy custard with buttery, spiced slices of bread, baked to perfection for a treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. Whether you’re after a cozy dessert for family dinners or an impressive dish for your next gathering, mastering bread and butter pudding will reward you with sweet, velvety slices every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort: Enjoy a timeless dessert that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
• Simple but elegant: Uses pantry staples like bread, eggs, and cream for an impressive yet easy-to-make treat.
• Adaptable flavors: Customize with spices, fruits, or chocolate to reflect your unique taste preferences.
• Perfectly creamy texture: A smooth custard pairs perfectly with crunchy, buttery layers of bread.
• Great for leftovers: A clever way to use day-old bread and reduce food waste deliciously.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of creamy custard and buttery bread, ensuring a rich color and delightful texture. Each item plays a vital role in making this bread and butter pudding unforgettable.

• Stale white bread: Day-old bread soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.
• Butter: Spread generously on the bread to create crispy, flavorful layers.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the custard base.
• Milk and cream: The combination adds creaminess and depth of flavor.
• Sugar: Sweetens the custard and helps achieve a golden crust.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
• Cinnamon or nutmeg: Optional spices to enhance the dessert’s heritage taste.
• Raisins or dried fruit: Adds bursts of sweetness and texture (optional).

Variations for Bread and Butter Pudding

Feel free to personalize your bread and butter pudding by mixing and matching ingredients, catering to dietary preferences, or just experimenting with new flavors. This flexibility makes the dessert a creative joy to prepare every time.

• Chocolate twist: Add chopped dark chocolate or cocoa powder to the custard for a rich, indulgent flavor.
• Fruit-filled: Toss in fresh berries, sliced apples, or poached pears for natural sweetness and freshness.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute milk and cream with coconut or almond milk for a delicious vegan alternative.
• Spiced version: Include cardamom, ginger, or mixed spice along with cinnamon for a more exotic flavor profile.
• Nutty crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top before baking for added texture.

How to Make Bread and Butter Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the bread

Start by trimming the crusts off your white bread and butter each slice generously. Cut the bread into manageable triangles or squares that will fit neatly into your baking dish.

Step 2: Layer the bread

Arrange a layer of buttered bread pieces in your buttered baking dish, sprinkling any raisins or dried fruit between layers if using, and repeat until the dish is filled.

Step 3: Make the custard

Whisk eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, milk, cream, and your chosen spices in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard mixture is the magic that turns the pudding creamy and tender.

Step 4: Combine and soak

Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread to ensure each piece is well soaked. Let the pudding sit for at least 20 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard properly.

Step 5: Bake until golden

Place the dish in a preheated oven (around 350°F or 175°C) and bake for 35-45 minutes until the pudding is puffed, golden on top, and the custard is just set.

Pro Tips for Making Bread and Butter Pudding

• Use day-old bread: This ensures the bread absorbs custard without becoming soggy.
• Butter every slice: Creates a crispy, flavorful crust with the right contrast in texture.
• Don’t rush soaking: Let the custard seep into the bread fully for a creamy, cohesive pudding.
• Cover if browning too fast: Tent with foil to prevent burning during baking.
• Rest before serving: Allow the pudding to cool slightly for better sliceability and flavor melding.

How to Serve Bread and Butter Pudding

Garnishes

Creamy custard and buttery bread shine on their own, but a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel or crème anglaise, or a dollop of whipped cream elevates the experience beautifully.

Side Dishes

This warm dessert pairs perfectly with fresh berries, a simple vanilla ice cream scoop, or tangy crème fraîche to balance the sweetness with a touch of brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve bread and butter pudding in individual ramekins for an elegant, personalized touch, or cut it into squares and plate with drizzled sauces for a restaurant-style dessert presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten bread and butter pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture and fresh taste.

Freezing

This pudding freezes well; wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in the oven at low heat or in the microwave until heated through, avoiding overheating to keep the custard creamy and avoid drying out the bread.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread besides white bread?

Absolutely! Brioche, challah, or even croissants add extra richness, while whole grain breads offer nuttier flavors; just adjust soaking times accordingly.

Is it necessary to butter the bread?

Butter adds flavor, helps create a crisp exterior, and prevents the custard from soaking in too quickly, so it’s highly recommended for a perfect texture.

Can I make bread and butter pudding vegan?

Yes! Replace eggs with a custard made from blended silken tofu or cornstarch-thickened plant milk, and use non-dairy milks and vegan butter for a delicious alternative.

How do I prevent the pudding from becoming soggy?

Use slightly stale bread and thoroughly butter each slice, then allow the custard to soak just long enough without oversaturating before baking.

Can I add fresh fruit to the pudding?

Definitely. Fresh berries, sliced apples, or pears work wonderfully and add freshness, just consider their moisture content while soaking and baking.

Final Thoughts

There is truly something magical about Bread and butter pudding, turning simple ingredients into a comforting, golden dessert that never fails to charm. Once you’ve perfected your technique, this classic will become a go-to favorite for cozy nights and special occasions alike. So why wait? Grab that stale bread, gather your ingredients, and create your own slice of sweet, buttery heaven today!

Related Posts

• Why Moist Honey Cake with Almonds Is a Must-Try Treat
• Why Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake Is Irresistible
• Why Buttermilk Pie is a Southern Classic

Print