Spiced Rum & Raisin Bread Pudding

My easy bread pudding recipe gets a grown-up kick! Spiced rum & raisins elevate this creamy bread pudding to new heights. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any cosy night in.

Right, let's dive into the scrumptious world of bread pudding recipe creation! ever find yourself with a loaf of bread that's seen better days? this recipe is your knight in shining armour.

This bread pudding recipe isn’t just any dessert. it's proper comfort food.

A Slice of History: The Best Ever Bread Pudding

Bread pudding , in its essence, is a humble dish. it hails from a time when cooks were resourceful. the basic french bread dessert uses stale bread.

It's transformed into a rich, satisfying treat. from simple beginnings, it has evolved into endless variations across cultures. did you know the classic new orleans bread pudding recipe is famous?

This is a relatively easy bake, my friend. it needs about 20 mins of prep, and nearly 50 minutes in the oven.

Give it nearly an hour and a half total to wow your guests. this bread pudding recipe serves 8-10 hungry bellies.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Bread Pudding Recipe

Honestly, the big thing here is that it minimizes waste. it turns old bread into something amazing. this version of bread pudding with heavy cream is packed with flavour.

It’s also perfect for a sunday roast or any get-together. the subtle warmth from the spices makes it special. i mean, who can resist a boozy kick of spiced rum? this just may become the best bread pudding you've ever baked.

Let’s get the lowdown on what makes this particular bread pudding recipe so special. you can use this dessert anytime but it is perfect as thanksgiving bread pudding recipes .

It has some great health benefits. milk and eggs provide calcium and protein, you know? what elevates it, though? it is the bourbon bread pudding style depth of flavor and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

This baked bread pudding recipe is not only delicious but also a feast for the senses. you are going to love this classic bread pudding !

Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of making this Best Ever Bread Pudding a reality. We're talking ingredients and essential bits of kit. Forget faffing about, we're keeping it simple, yeah?

Ingredients & Equipment

Look, this Bread Pudding Recipe is pretty straightforward. It's all about good ingredients treated right. No need for fancy stuff.

Main Ingredients

Okay, so for this Creamy Bread Pudding Recipe (and trust me, it is creamy), you'll need the following. I mean, honestly, the best bread pudding always starts with good ingredients, right?

• Stale Bread: 1 pound (450g) . That’s key. Use challah, brioche, or even day-old French bread. Don't even think about using fresh bread, yeah? It'll just turn to mush.
• Raisins: 1 cup (170g) . Plump and juicy are the way to go. Honestly, if you're not a fan of raisins, sub in dried cranberries or sultanas.
• Spiced Rum: 1/4 cup (60ml) . This is optional, but seriously , it adds a lovely kick. If you're not into the booze, use apple juice or milk.
• Eggs: 4 large . Free-range if you can get 'em.
• Whole Milk: 3 cups (720ml) . Don't skimp on the full-fat stuff, it’s what makes it so lush.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) . Again, essential for that creamy texture. This is bread pudding with heavy cream , after all!
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200g) .
• Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (30g) , melted plus extra for greasing.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons .
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon .
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Ground Cloves: 1/4 teaspoon .
• Pinch of Salt.

Quality check: the bread is obviously the star here. it needs to be properly stale. like, leave it out for a day or two stale.

Also, for the custard ingredients, make sure the milk and cream are fresh. honestly, you’ll taste the difference.

Seasoning Notes

This is where you can really play around with the flavours. This French Bread Dessert is all about warming spices.

• Essential Spice Combo: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are the backbone. Don’t skip 'em!
• Flavour Enhancers: A splash of vanilla extract really elevates the whole thing.
• Quick Subs: No cloves? A pinch of allspice will do in a pinch. No nutmeg? A little extra cinnamon works.
• Bourbon Time: You can make this a Bourbon Bread Pudding . Just replace some of the rum with bourbon. Or add a tablespoon of Bourbon Street Bread Pudding sauce on top.
• If you want to make it autumnal, think Thanksgiving Bread Pudding Recipes with diced apple! An Apple Bourbon Bread Pudding is delicious!

Equipment Needed

Right, let's talk tools. Thankfully, you don't need much for this Classic Bread Pudding . Keep it simple, yeah?

• Baking Dish: 9x13 inch (23x33cm) . This is the one must-have.
• Large Mixing Bowl.
• Whisk.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons.
• Knife and Cutting Board.

Household Alternatives: No fancy whisk? A fork works. Don’t have a proper measuring cup? Use a mug and eyeball it. It’s baking, not rocket science!

Right, let's talk bread pudding recipe , shall we? it’s comfort food, pure and simple. nothing beats a warm, creamy classic bread pudding on a cold day.

Honestly, it's like a hug in a bowl. but we're not talking boring, basic bread pudding today, alright? we are going to give your grandma recipe an upgrade.

I'm talking spiced rum & raisin bread pudding with heavy cream , a cosy classic reimagined!

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

Getting your "mise en place" sorted is essential. it's a fancy french term, you know, basically meaning "everything in its place.

" cube your bread – stale is best, think challah or even french bread if you wanna feel extra posh.

Then, soak those raisins in spiced rum; or use apple juice if you’re not feeling boozy. melt butter. and now? you are good to go!.

This essential mise en place step makes everything easier and keeps it moving smoothly.

Let's Get Baking: Spiced Rum & Raisin Best Ever Bread Pudding

Alright, here's how we make this creamy bread pudding recipe :

1. Cube your bread. Put it in a large bowl and soak raisins in rum for 30 minutes . This is critical !
2. Make your custard: Whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream , sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. Combine the custard with the bread and raisin. Press down and let it soak for at least 30 minutes . Overnight in the fridge works too.
4. Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. Pour the mixture in the dish. Bake for 45- 55 minutes . Look for a golden top, a slight jiggle in the center.
6. (Optional) Time for the rum sauce topping! You'll melt butter over medium heat, add brown sugar and heavy cream and simmer it.
7. (Optional) Pour it over the bread pudding the last 10 minutes of baking.
8. Cool slightly before serving!

Pro Tips and Tricks

• Don't even think about using fresh bread. Stale is where it's at! It absorbs the custard properly.
• Wanna take this to the next level? A little Bourbon Bread Pudding action never hurt anyone. Just a splash.
• If you are feeling real fancy add apple bourbon bread pudding .
• Avoid overbaking by testing with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it's ready.
• For the Thanksgiving Bread Pudding Recipes bake it the night before. Then you can make it ahead and you can save time!

So there you have it, the best bread pudding recipe . it's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you're serving it up for a cosy night in or a fancy brunch.

Honestly, once you try this, you'll never go back to the boring old breaded pudding ! enjoy.

Alright, let's chat about some seriously good tips and tricks for making the best ever bread pudding you've ever tasted.

Honestly, this is where the magic happens! trust me, after years of tinkering, i've got a few secrets up my sleeve to share.

Recipe Notes: My Bread Pudding Confessions

This section is all about nailing that bread pudding recipe , right?

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Bread Pudding Game

Right, so you've baked this beauty. now what? plating matters! a simple dusting of icing sugar makes it look fancy.

For presentation, think individual ramekins or a gorgeous rustic dish. serve it warm, because, let's face it, warm is best.

Complementary sides? the best bread pudding is divine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream – obviously. or, if you're feeling posh, a dollop of fresh whipped cream.

As for drinks, a rich, dark coffee or a sweet dessert wine goes down a treat. maybe a little bourbon street bread pudding action going on with a splash of bourbon bread pudding ? now we're talking!

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh, Mate

Got leftovers? (if you do, you're stronger than me!) for refrigeration, just pop it in an airtight container. it'll happily sit in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing? yeah, you can! cut it into portions, wrap 'em tightly, and freeze for up to a month. reheating is easy.

Microwave for a quick fix, or oven bake at 300° f ( 150° c) until warmed through. baked bread pudding recipe success!

Variations: Get Your Creative Juices Flowing

Fancy a change? for a dietary adaptation, try using almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option. as for seasonal swaps, in autumn, chuck in some diced apples and a little extra cinnamon.

Suddenly, it's thanksgiving all over again! imagine that thanksgiving bread pudding recipes .

Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of Knowledge

Okay, so, let's be real, this is french bread dessert , not exactly a health food. but hey, everything in moderation, right? i had to look it up, and a slice of creamy bread pudding recipe clocks in around 350 calories.

But it also packs a bit of protein from the eggs and milk. plus, that cinnamon might even help regulate blood sugar.

Who knew?

So, there you have it. the lowdown on making your new orleans bread pudding recipe , or any bread pudding with heavy cream , absolutely amazing! don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

Classic bread pudding , reimagined by you!

Frequently Asked Questions

My bread pudding turned out soggy! What did I do wrong?

Soggy bread pudding? Sounds like a right bother, doesn't it? Most likely, the bread wasn't stale enough, or it wasn't soaked for long enough to fully absorb the custard. Make sure to use properly stale bread (leaving it out overnight works a treat!) and give it a good 30 minutes (or even overnight in the fridge) to soak up all that lovely custard before baking. Nobody wants a soggy bottom!

Can I make this bread pudding recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bread pudding is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can assemble the entire bread pudding in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. It's like having a delicious surprise waiting for you, ready to be baked at a moment's notice!

What's the best way to store leftover bread pudding?

Leftover bread pudding is best stored in the refrigerator, properly covered, for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop it in the microwave for a minute or two, or gently warm it in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) until heated through. A little tip? A dollop of fresh cream or custard when reheating really brings it back to life.

I don't have spiced rum. What can I substitute in this bread pudding recipe?

No worries if you're teetotal or just out of rum! Apple juice is a great substitute for the spiced rum in this bread pudding recipe. You can also use regular rum extract (a teaspoon or so) or even a bit of vanilla extract and a pinch of extra spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to mimic the warmth of the rum. The key is to add that little something extra to elevate the flavour.

Is this bread pudding recipe healthy?

Let's be honest, bread pudding is more of a treat than a health food, innit? It's got bread, custard, and sugar, so it's relatively high in calories, carbohydrates, and sugar. You can lighten it up a bit by using skimmed milk, reducing the sugar, and adding more fruit like berries. Everything in moderation, eh? A little bit of what you fancy does you good!

Can I use different types of bread for this bread pudding recipe?

Absolutely! While challah, brioche, or French bread are fantastic, you can use other breads too. Croissants add a lovely buttery flavour, while a sturdy white bread will also work well. Avoid using very dense or strongly flavored breads as they might overpower the custard. The most important thing is that the bread is stale enough to soak up all the lovely flavours of the custard.

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