Creamy Bread Pudding with Velvety Custard Sauce: A Decadent Dessert Delight

Creamy Bread Pudding with Velvety Custard Sauce: A Decadent Dessert Delight

If you’re craving a comforting, indulgent dessert that hits the spot every time, look no further than this creamy bread pudding with velvety custard sauce. Perfectly golden on the outside and soft and custardy on the inside, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The rich custard sauce poured over the warm bread pudding takes this dessert to another level of luxury, making it a favorite at any gathering.

Ingredients:

For the Bread Pudding:

  • 4 cups of slightly stale bread (use brioche, French, or any dense bread), cut into cubes
  • 2 cups of whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup raisins, cranberries, or dried cherries (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

For the Custard Sauce:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment Needed:

  • 9×9-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Small saucepan
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Spatula

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Pudding

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Add the bread cubes into the bowl, ensuring they are thoroughly soaked in the custard mixture. Let the bread soak for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow it to absorb the liquid.
  4. If you’re using dried fruit, fold in the raisins or cranberries for added texture and sweetness.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 2: Make the Custard Sauce

  1. Combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm, but not boiling.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and a pinch of salt until well blended.
  3. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
  4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens to a smooth consistency (about 5-7 minutes). It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Remove from the heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and strain the custard through a fine mesh strainer to remove any solids.

Step 3: Serve

  1. Once the bread pudding has finished baking, allow it to cool slightly before serving.
  2. Pour the warm custard sauce generously over each serving of bread pudding.
  3. For an added touch, garnish with some extra dried fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

  • Use Stale Bread: Using slightly stale bread is crucial for this recipe because it absorbs the custard mixture better without becoming too soggy.
  • Let It Rest: Let the bread pudding sit for about 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set and firm up. This helps achieve the perfect texture when served.
  • Variation: You can add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or swap out the dried fruit for fresh berries during the summer for a refreshing twist.

Why This Recipe Works:

This bread pudding is an absolute crowd-pleaser, with its balance of creamy custard, fluffy bread, and a deliciously sweet topping. The custard sauce adds the perfect finishing touch, ensuring every bite is rich, smooth, and utterly satisfying. It’s the perfect dessert for family dinners, special occasions, or just to treat yourself after a long day.

Conclusion:

Bread pudding with custard sauce is one of those timeless desserts that always feels like home. It’s comforting, satisfying, and perfect for all seasons. Make it ahead for a special gathering, or whip it up as a cozy treat when you need some sweetness in your life. The combination of bread, custard, and the luxurious sauce is something everyone will love – give it a try and enjoy every spoonful!

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