Are you craving a comforting, yet surprisingly sophisticated dessert? Look no further than this delightful pineapple bread pudding recipe! This easy recipe transforms leftover bread into a creamy, caramelized treat, bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh pineapple. It’s the perfect ending to any meal, a fantastic contribution to a potluck, or simply a delicious treat for a cozy night in. This homemade dessert is surprisingly quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and requires minimal ingredients. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (challah, brioche, or even sourdough work wonderfully)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced (about one medium pineapple)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This is a crucial step for easy removal later!
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gently toss to ensure the bread is evenly coated.
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Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Assemble the Pudding: Add the diced pineapple and raisins (if using) to the bread mixture. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread and gently stir until all the bread is moistened. Don't overmix; some dry bits are fine.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
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Cool & Serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch! Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Bread Pudding:
- Day-Old Bread is Key: Using day-old bread ensures it absorbs the custard beautifully without becoming soggy.
- Don't Overmix: Gently incorporate the wet ingredients to prevent the bread from becoming mushy.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice.
- Fruit Variations: Other fruits like apples, berries, or peaches work well in this recipe. Just adjust the amount according to your preference.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Protein: 8-10g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.