Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Experience the heartwarming comfort of Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding. This indulgent dessert combines tender bread with a rich custard and a sweet, buttery sauce for a truly delightful treat.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

• 6 cups stale bread, cubed (preferably French bread or challah)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup bourbon or dark rum (optional)

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup bourbon or dark rum (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare Bread: Place the cubed bread in the prepared baking dish.
3. Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. If using, stir in the raisins or pecans and bourbon or rum.
4. Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it’s fully soaked.
5. Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
6. Prepare Sauce: For the sauce, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and cook until dissolved. Add the heavy cream and bourbon or rum if using. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Serve: Serve the bread pudding warm with a generous drizzle of the sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calorie Count: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

• Fruit Additions: Try adding other fruits like chopped apples or dried cherries to the bread pudding.
• Nut Options: Swap raisins for other nuts or seeds as per your preference.
• Sauce Variations: Experiment with different liquors or extract flavors in the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
   Stale bread absorbs the custard better, but fresh bread can be used if you toast it first.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
3. Is it possible to make this recipe without alcohol?
   Absolutely, you can omit the bourbon or rum and still enjoy a delicious bread pudding.
4. Can I use a different type of bread?
   Yes, feel free to use any type of bread you prefer, but richer bread like challah or brioche works best.
5. How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
   It’s done when the custard is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
6. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
   Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich.
7. How can I make the bread pudding more flavorful?
   Adding spices like cardamom or nutmeg, or using flavored extracts can enhance the flavor.
8. Can I add chocolate to the bread pudding?
   Yes, you can mix in chocolate chips or chunks for a chocolaty twist.
9. What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?
   You can use a different baking dish; just adjust the baking time as needed.
10. How should I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

The Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is a comforting and delicious dessert, perfect for any occasion. Its rich custard and sweet sauce make every bite a delightful experience. Enjoy!

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