November 13 — National Bread Pudding Day
Celebrate bread pudding: a thrifty, comforting custard-baked dessert that turns stale bread into a tender, flavorful pudding.
Quick background
- Classic comfort dessert with European roots; many regional variations (British, French, Southern U.S.). Traditionally uses stale bread soaked in a milk‑and‑egg custard, often enriched with sugar, spices, fruit, or alcohol.
Basic bread pudding (serves 6)
- 6 cups cubed stale bread (brioche, challah, or day‑old white/baguette)
- 2 cups whole milk (or 1 cup milk + 1 cup cream), 3 large eggs, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, pinch salt
- Optional: 1 cup raisins or chopped dried fruit (soaked in rum or hot water), 2 tbsp melted butter mixed with bread before soaking
- Method:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9x9" or similar baking dish.
2. Toss bread cubes with butter and fruit (if using) and place in dish.
3. Whisk milk/cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour over bread, pressing to soak. Let sit 15–30 minutes (or refrigerate several hours/overnight).
4. Bake 35–45 minutes until custard is set but slightly jiggly in center and top is golden. Cool briefly before serving.
Quick sauce — simple caramel or bourbon sauce
- 1/2 cup butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup cream, 2 tbsp bourbon (optional). Melt butter, stir in sugar, add cream and simmer 2–3 min until slightly thickened; finish with bourbon off heat.
Variations & tips
- Richer: use brioche/challah or add extra egg yolks and cream.
- Flakier: use croissant or laminated dough for a richer texture.
- Savory option: omit sugar, use stock/cheese/eggs, add vegetables and herbs (great for brunch).
- Texture: for custardy center, don’t overbake; for a firmer pudding, bake longer.
- Make‑ahead: assemble and refrigerate (up to 24 hours) before baking; reheat gently.
- Alcohol boost: soak fruit in rum, brandy, or liqueur for depth.
Serving
- Serve warm with sauce, whipped cream, or ice cream. Sprinkle toasted nuts or powdered sugar for contrast.
Enjoy National Bread Pudding Day by rescuing leftover bread and turning it into something indulgent and homey....
