Bread and Butter Pudding: A Classic Dessert That Feels Like Home

There’s something magical about turning simple, humble ingredients into a warm and comforting dessert. Bread and butter pudding is a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. With its golden crust, creamy interior, and bursts of sweetness from sultanas or raisins, it’s a dessert that warms both your heart and your stomach. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying it for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees a delightful result.

Why You’ll Love Bread and Butter Pudding

Bread and butter pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a way to avoid food waste, celebrate simplicity, and indulge in a dish that feels like a warm hug. Here’s why it’s so special:

• Budget-Friendly: Uses leftover bread and pantry staples.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or flavors to make it your own.
• Comforting: Perfect for cold nights or as a sweet treat any time of year.
• Versatile: Pairs beautifully with cream, ice cream, or custard.

Ingredients for Bread and Butter Pudding

Here’s what you’ll need to create this decadent dessert:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
White bread, cubed	8 heaped cups	Slightly stale bread works best
Sultanas or raisins	1 cup	Add more if desired for extra sweetness

Egg Mixture

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Eggs	3	Provides richness and structure
Milk	1 1/2 cups	Use low or full-fat milk
Heavy cream	1 cup	Substitute with milk for a lighter option
Butter, melted	3 tbsp	Adds flavor and richness
White sugar	1/2 cup	Sweetens the pudding
Cinnamon powder	1 tsp	Adds warmth and spice
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	Enhances flavor

Finishes and Serving

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Butter, melted	2 tbsp + 1.5 tbsp	For drizzling before and after baking
Icing sugar	For dusting	Adds a touch of elegance
Toppings	Optional	Ice cream, custard, cream, or sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bread and Butter Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F. Prepare a baking dish (10 cups/2.5 liters) by lightly greasing it with butter.

Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

• Add the cubed bread and sultanas to the bowl with the egg mixture.
• Gently mix until all the bread pieces are coated. Let the mixture sit for 3 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.

Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish

• Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring the sultanas are well-distributed. If too many sultanas are on the surface, gently push them below the top layer to prevent burning.

Step 5: Drizzle with Butter and Bake

• Drizzle 2 tbsp melted butter over the top of the pudding.
• Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly wobbly.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

• Remove the pudding from the oven and brush with the remaining 1.5 tbsp melted butter for extra flavor and shine (optional).
• Dust with icing sugar to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the pudding rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with your favorite toppings like ice cream, cream, custard, or even chocolate sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Bread and Butter Pudding

1. Use Slightly Stale Bread

Slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a richer texture. If your bread is fresh, lightly toast it before using.

2. Adjust the Sweetness

Taste the egg mixture before adding the bread. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, increase the sugar slightly.

3. Experiment with Add-Ins

Mix things up by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or orange zest for extra flavor.

4. Bake to Perfection

Avoid overbaking as it can dry out the pudding. The center should be set but still have a slight jiggle.

5. Serve Warm

Bread and butter pudding is best served warm to enjoy its creamy, comforting texture.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on eight servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	7g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	22g

FAQs About Bread and Butter Pudding

1. Can I make bread and butter pudding in advance?

Yes! Assemble the pudding up to the baking stage and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

2. What’s the best type of bread to use?

White bread, brioche, or challah are ideal for their soft texture and ability to soak up the egg mixture.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

4. Can I freeze bread and butter pudding?

Yes. Freeze the baked pudding in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before eating.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute the milk, cream, and butter with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut cream, and vegan butter.

6. What can I serve alongside bread and butter pudding?

Pair it with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or freshly whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert.

Why Bread and Butter Pudding is a Timeless Favorite

Bread and butter pudding is a classic for a reason. It’s a dessert that combines nostalgia, simplicity, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a midweek treat, it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Ready to Make Your Own Bread and Butter Pudding?

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and experience the joy of creating a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With this recipe, you’ll have a golden, creamy bread and butter pudding ready to impress in no time.

Happy baking!

Print