Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Bread Pudding with Eggnog recipe! This delicious twist on a classic combines the comforting texture of bread pudding with the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog, creating a truly decadent treat perfect for chilly evenings or holiday gatherings. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that’s both impressive and surprisingly simple, making it ideal for both experienced bakers and those just starting their culinary adventures.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Adjust the quantities as needed for your crowd.
- 1 loaf (1 pound) day-old challah, brioche, or other sturdy bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the bread: Lightly toast the bread cubes for a few minutes in a 350°F (175°C) oven, until they are slightly firm. This helps prevent a soggy pudding. You can also air dry them for an hour or so.
Mix the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggnog, milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon until well combined.
Combine bread and custard: Add the bread cubes to the custard mixture and gently stir until the bread is evenly moistened. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the liquid. If adding raisins, nuts, or cranberries, stir them in now.
Bake the pudding: Pour the bread pudding mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-55 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.
Cool and serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar (optional) and enjoy warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Best Bread Pudding:
- Use day-old bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard better than fresh bread, resulting in a moister and more flavorful pudding.
- Don't overmix: Gently stir the bread and custard to avoid breaking up the bread cubes too much.
- Check for doneness: Start checking the pudding for doneness around the 45-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Variations:
- Spiced Bread Pudding: Add a pinch of cardamom, cloves, or allspice to the custard mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Boozy Bread Pudding: Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard for an adult twist on this classic dessert.
- Chocolate Bread Pudding: Stir in 1/2 cup of melted semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the bread.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe serving 8 and may vary depending on ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This delicious Bread Pudding with Eggnog is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas or special occasion desserts. Enjoy this warm, comforting, and delicious dish!