A little cafe in my town has this on their menu and it’s always been a favorite of mine!

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm, homey appeal of Bread and Butter Pudding. This beloved dessert, with its origins rooted deep in British culinary tradition, is a delightful blend of simple ingredients that transform into something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it as the grand finale to a cozy dinner, Bread and Butter Pudding is sure to evoke fond memories and create new ones.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need to Create This Timeless Dessert

To make a traditional Bread and Butter Pudding, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing the flavors of each component to shine through.

These ingredients come together to create a dessert that is both hearty and sweet, with the perfect balance of creamy custard and crisp, caramelized bread.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Bread and Butter Pudding

1. Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or oil. This will ensure that your pudding doesn’t stick and will make for easier serving later.

Next, take your slices of bread and remove the crusts. This step is optional, but it does help create a smoother texture in the final dish. Once the crusts are removed, generously butter each slice of bread. The butter not only adds flavor but also helps the bread to crisp up beautifully in the oven.

2. Layering the Bread and Adding the Raisins

Arrange half of your buttered bread slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the bread, ensuring that each bite will have a burst of sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add other dried fruits such as currants or sultanas for a more complex flavor.

Once the raisins are evenly distributed, sprinkle the cinnamon over the top. The warmth of the cinnamon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the raisins, adding depth to the flavor profile.

Now, layer the remaining slices of bread on top of the raisins and cinnamon. Press down gently to compact the layers slightly, which will help them soak up the custard mixture.

3. Making the Custard

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, whipped cream, eggs, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. This custard mixture is the heart of the pudding, providing richness and moisture to the dish.

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread in the baking dish. Allow it to sit for a few minutes so that the bread can absorb the custard. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture—a creamy interior with a golden, slightly crisp top.

4. Baking the Pudding

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The pudding should be firm but still have a slight jiggle in the center. If desired, you can sprinkle a little extra sugar on top of the pudding halfway through the baking time to create a caramelized crust.

Once the pudding is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This cooling period helps the pudding to set fully and makes it easier to slice and serve.

5. Serving Suggestions

Bread and Butter Pudding is best served warm, with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm pudding and the cold cream is utterly divine. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can drizzle the pudding with a sauce—such as a rich vanilla custard, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a decadent caramel sauce.

If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), they can be reheated in the oven or microwave. The pudding also tastes delicious cold, making it a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed at any time of day.