Are you craving a deliciously comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Challah Bread Pudding recipe! This isn't your grandma's bread pudding (though she'd probably love it too!). We've taken the classic recipe and given it a delightful twist, resulting in a rich, custardy dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for quick dinner ideas or a show-stopping finale to a meal, this recipe fits the bill. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this unbelievably easy and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed challah bread (day-old is best!)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. If using day-old challah, simply cube it. If using fresh bread, lightly toast the cubes for a few minutes to prevent a soggy pudding.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Pudding
Add the cubed challah bread to the wet ingredients, gently stirring to ensure all the bread is coated. Stir in the raisins and nuts (if using). Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. This is crucial for a perfectly textured pudding.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the bread pudding mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, and enjoy warm! This is a fantastic recipe for a comforting dessert any time of year, particularly during the cooler months.
Tips for the Best Challah Bread Pudding:
- Day-old bread is key: Using slightly stale bread helps prevent a soggy pudding. If you only have fresh bread, toast the cubes lightly before adding them to the custard.
- Don't overmix: Gently stir the bread into the custard to avoid breaking it down too much.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or knife to check if the center is set before removing it from the oven.
- Get creative with add-ins: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or different types of nuts.
Variations:
- Apple Challah Bread Pudding: Add diced apples and a sprinkle of allspice to the mixture.
- Chocolate Challah Bread Pudding: Stir in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Citrus Challah Bread Pudding: Add the zest and juice of one orange or lemon for a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-22g
- Saturated Fat: 12-15g
- Cholesterol: 150-200mg
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 8-10g
This Challah Bread Pudding recipe is a delightful addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful treat!