Is there anything more comforting than a warm, delicious pudding on a chilly evening? This Irish Bread Pudding recipe is the ultimate comfort food – a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a delightful dessert after a hearty meal. Forget complicated baking; this recipe is surprisingly easy and delivers a rich, custardy texture with the delightful warmth of spices. It’s a testament to how delicious and healthy meals can be made with simple, homemade cooking. Let's dive into this fantastic addition to your quick dinner ideas or dessert repertoire!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed stale bread (day-old bread works perfectly!)
- 1/2 cup raisins (or other dried fruit, like currants or cranberries)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures easy removal and a beautifully browned pudding.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix gently to coat the bread evenly with the spices and sugar.
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Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined. The smoother the mixture, the more evenly the pudding will cook.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture and gently stir until the bread is evenly moistened. Don't overmix; some slightly dry spots are okay.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top. This adds richness and helps the pudding brown beautifully.
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Bake to Perfection: 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 – it shouldn't be completely clean.
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Rest & Serve: Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. This allows it to set completely and makes it easier to slice. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Tips for the Best Irish Bread Pudding:
- Use Stale Bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better than fresh bread, resulting in a richer, less soggy pudding.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can make the pudding dense. Gentle mixing is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A dash of allspice or ginger would also be delicious.
- Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cherries would make wonderful additions.
Variations:
- Fruity Delight: Add a cup of chopped apples or pears for extra sweetness and moisture.
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a bright, refreshing flavor.
- Boozy Bread Pudding: For adults, add a splash of Irish whiskey or rum to the custard mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 18-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Irish Bread Pudding recipe is a delightful example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a guaranteed success and a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. It’s a healthy and satisfying dessert that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!