Is there anything more comforting than a steaming, delicious bread and butter pudding on a chilly evening? This delightful dessert has its roots in English cuisine but has won hearts worldwide with its simple ingredients and heartwarming flavors. Whether you are baking it to finish a family meal or to enjoy during tea time, this guide will help you through the process of making a classic bread and butter pudding in just five straightforward steps.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 8 slices of white bread
- 100g butter
- 150g raisins or sultanas
- 5 eggs
- 150g caster sugar
- 500ml milk
- 200ml double cream
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- Zest of one orange
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Icing sugar for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Bread
- Begin by trimming the crusts off the bread. This isn’t mandatory, but it gives the pudding a refined look.
- Spread a generous amount of butter on one side of each slice. Make sure to cover the edges as well to avoid any dry spots in the pudding.
- Now, cut the slices into triangles or squares.
2. Soaking the Fruit
- Soak the raisins or sultanas in a splash of warm water or even better, in some orange juice or sherry for 10-15 minutes. This step helps to plump up the fruit, making it juicier and flavorful.
🍇 Note: Soaking the fruit enhances its flavor and prevents it from drying out during baking.
3. Layering the Pudding
- Take a suitable baking dish (about 1.5 liters in capacity). Begin by laying some of the buttered bread pieces at the bottom.
- Sprinkle a layer of soaked fruit over the bread.
- Continue layering with more bread and fruit until all your ingredients are used.
4. Making the Custard
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, cream, vanilla essence, and orange zest until well combined.
- Optionally, you can gently warm this mixture over low heat to help dissolve the sugar, but make sure not to scramble the eggs!
- Pour this custard mix over the bread layers. Give the dish a gentle shake or press down the bread to ensure all parts soak up the liquid.
- Sprinkle nutmeg over the top for that traditional hint of spice.
5. Baking the Pudding
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan or gas mark 4).
- Place the baking dish in a roasting tin. Fill the tin with boiling water to halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath helps cook the pudding evenly.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the pudding is set and has a golden-brown crust.
🍰 Note: The water bath technique ensures a creamy, custard-like texture in your pudding.
Serving Suggestions
Once your bread and butter pudding is out of the oven and has cooled slightly:
- Optionally, dust with icing sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serve warm with a dollop of clotted cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of custard for that classic British touch.
Enhancing Your Pudding
Here are some additional tips to make your pudding even more delectable:
- Experiment with Bread: While white bread is traditional, try using brioche, challah, or even panettone for a richer flavor.
- Fruit Variations: Mix it up by adding dried cranberries, cherries, or even some grated apple.
- Add-ins: Incorporate chocolate chips or a swirl of caramel sauce between layers for a unique twist.
Wrapping Up
With these five easy steps, you've now mastered making a traditional yet versatile bread and butter pudding. From the simple act of preparing the bread to the final touches before serving, this dessert is a testament to the beauty of transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. It's not just a dessert; it's a warm embrace from your kitchen.
Can I make bread and butter pudding without a water bath?
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Yes, you can bake the pudding without a water bath, but it might not be as creamy. The water bath helps to cook the custard gently and evenly, reducing the risk of it curdling or becoming too rubbery.
What can I substitute for cream if I want to lighten the recipe?
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You can use all milk or even part skim milk if you’re looking to reduce the fat content. Another option is to use a plant-based milk like almond or soy, although the texture might change slightly.
How long can I store bread and butter pudding?
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Stored in the fridge, it will last for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. If you’re planning to serve it later, consider under-baking it slightly initially, so reheating doesn’t overcook it.
