Are you craving a decadent dessert that's both comforting and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Mission BBQ Caramel Bread Pudding recipe takes the classic bread pudding to a whole new level, infusing it with the irresistible smoky sweetness of Mission BBQ's famous caramel sauce. It's the perfect ending to a family dinner, a cozy night in, or even a weekend brunch. This recipe delivers a delicious dish perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meal options, without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf (1 pound) challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup Mission BBQ caramel sauce (or your favorite homemade caramel sauce)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Soak the Bread: In a large bowl, gently toss the bread cubes with 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar and the cinnamon and nutmeg. This ensures even sweetness and spice distribution.
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Create the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps.
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Combine & Bake: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are moistened. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. This step is crucial for a moist and tender bread pudding.
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Pour Caramel: Once the bread has absorbed the custard, generously drizzle the Mission BBQ caramel sauce over the top.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in a larger baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the baking dish (this creates a water bath, preventing the pudding from drying out). Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
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Cool & Serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Tips for Success:
- Bread Choice: Challah bread works best for its rich flavor and soft texture. You can also use brioche or Texas toast.
- Don't Over-Soak: Allowing the bread to soak for too long can make the pudding soggy. Aim for 10-15 minutes.
- Water Bath: The water bath is essential for even baking and prevents cracking.
- Cooling Time: Letting the pudding cool slightly allows it to set properly before serving.
Variations:
- Chocolate Caramel: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a richer, chocolatey twist.
- Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the bread cubes for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced it Up: Experiment with different spices, like cardamom or ginger, to create unique flavor combinations.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and serving size. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients. However, expect it to be a rich dessert relatively high in calories, fat, and sugar.
This Mission BBQ Caramel Bread Pudding is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a delicious dish, perfect as a quick dinner idea, or simply a delicious treat. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking, and the comforting warmth of this sweet and smoky dessert!