“The proof of the pudding is in the eating. By a small sample we may judge of the whole piece.” –Miguel Cervantes
How to Make Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a simple and delicious dessert made of bread, milk, and sugar. It was actually created in the 1300′s and was known as ‘poor man’s pudding’. Bread pudding’s use then was to salvage staled bread by soaking it in milk and sugar, other spices and flavorings, then being baked.
Later bread pudding became a traditional Christmas dessert, but it’s not just for Christmas anymore. Many people make this pudding throughout the year for many occasions.
There are many different ways to make bread pudding; some people add fruits and spices to their bread pudding. Something similar to the most common bread pudding recipe is referenced in ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens. Christmas dinner features what was called plum pudding, made by Mrs. Cratchit.
Bread pudding possibilities are endless.
The Best Bread Pudding Recipe
How to Make Bread Pudding
Two main components comprise this recipe for bread pudding: the bread pudding itself and the whiskey sauce which covers it.
Supplies:
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 medium sized, heavy sauce pan
- 1 13x9x2 inch baking dish
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 tablespoon measuring spoon
- 12-15 dessert dishes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound loaf of French bread
- 1 quart of milk
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 1/2 cups of sugar
- 1 cup of raisins
- 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons of butter or margarine
- melted whiskey sauce
For the whiskey sauce:
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of butter or margarine
- 1/2 cup of half & half
- 2 tablespoons of whiskey
Putting It All Together to Make Bread Pudding
- Break the French bread loaf into small chunks and place it in the large mixing bowl.
- Add 1 quart of milk and stir well.
- Let this mixture stand for 15 minutes.
- Combine the three eggs, 1 1/2 cups of sugar, one cup of raisins, and two tablespoons of vanilla extract.
- Add this mixture to the bread and milk, stirring frequently.
- Melt the three tablespoons of butter and pour it into the 13x9x2 baking dish.
- Spoon bread mixture into this dish and bake at 350 degrees for about 25 minutes or until mixture has ‘set’.
- After letting the bread pudding cool; cut it into individual squares.
- Finally, place each square into seperate dessert dishes. This should make about 12-15 servings.
Making the Whiskey Sauce
- Combine 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of butter or margarine, and 1/2 cup of half & half in a heavy saucepan.
- Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Once the mixture is boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about five minutes.
- Remove from heat and let mixture cool.
- Stir in two tablespoons of whiskey and you’re done.
This will make about a 1 1/2 cups of whiskey sauce. Lastly, spoon the whiskey sauce over the individual bread pudding squares.
Bread pudding makes a terrific dessert for almost any occasion. Whip it up for the family at Thanksgiving, or make a special batch for a holiday party. Serve at a buffet-style gathering during the summer, or include this dish on your own menu anytime. Feel free to experiment with different types of fruits and spices until you find the right combination to tickle your fancy. With such a simple, scrumptious recipe your guests will request bread pudding every time.
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