How to Prepare Classic British Bread and Butter Pudding: A Step-by-Step Guide
British cuisine might not boast the global fame of Italian pizza or Mexican tacos, but it hides gems worthy of any food lover’s attention. One such treasure is the classic British Bread and Butter Pudding. This traditional dessert is not just a delight but also a perfect example of comfort food at its best. With its soft, custardy base and crispy, golden top, it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy. Preparing this classic is straightforward and requires everyday ingredients, making it an excellent recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to bring a bit of British charm to their kitchen. Here’s how to make your own Bread and Butter Pudding, steeped in simplicity and taste.
Ingredients:
- 10-12 slices of day-old white bread (the staler, the better!)
- Softened butter (for spreading)
- 50g (about 1/4 cup) raisins or sultanas
- 4 large eggs
- 600ml (about 2.5 cups) full-cream milk
- 50g (about 1/4 cup) sugar, plus a bit extra for sprinkling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prep the Bread:
Start by lightly buttering each slice of bread on one side. Once you’ve spread the love with your butter, cut the slices into triangles or squares, depending on your preference. This shape makes it easier to layer them in your baking dish and adds a bit of rustic charm to the presentation.
2. Arrange the First Layer:
Find a suitable baking dish (a medium-sized, square or rectangular one works best) and place a layer of your buttered bread at the bottom, butter-side-up. Sprinkle half of your raisins or sultanas evenly over the bread. If you’ve opted to use cinnamon or nutmeg, dust a light layer over the raisins now for that extra warmth in flavour.
3. Build It Up:
Repeat the layering process with the remaining bread and raisins, finishing with a layer of bread, ensuring you’ve created a cozy, layered concoction that’s ready to soak up the liquid goodness.
4. The Custard Mix:
Now, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and the sugar begins to dissolve. This is your custard base, which will transform the dish in the oven. With love and patience, pour this mixture evenly over the bread layers, allowing the liquid to seep through the cracks and crevices. Let it sit for a moment to absorb and penetrate every slice.
5. A Preheat and A Sprinkle:
As your pudding sits, preheat your oven to 180°C (about 355°F). Just before it’s time to bake, sprinkle a bit more sugar over the top of your pudding. This will caramelize nicely and give you that desirable crisp, golden finish.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place your concoction in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard has set but is still slightly wobbly in the middle. This wobble is your secret to a custardy inside beneath that crunchy top layer.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Bread and Butter Pudding is ready when it’s basking in its golden glory. Serve it warm, perhaps with a dollop of cream, custard, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make it extra special.
8. Store (If Any Left!):
If you find yourself with leftovers, cover and refrigerate. To enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven until warm.
Final Thoughts:
Bread and Butter Pudding is more than just a dessert. It’s a hearty embrace, a childhood nostalgia, and a testament to the beauty of simple cooking. Whether it’s a chilly evening that demands comfort or a gathering that calls for a sweet finale, this classic dish promises to deliver smiles and warmth to your table. So, grab that day-old bread and transform it into something that tastes like home. After all, in the world of cooking, it’s often the simplest ingredients that create the most memorable moments. Happy baking!