Indulge in the Richness of Southern Bread Pudding Today!
Welcome to my Southern Bread Pudding recipe, y’all! Southerners know that if there’s one thing we’re good at, it’s making the most scrumptious bread pudding, and this recipe is no exception. As a chef specializing in southern-style cuisine, I guarantee you that this bread pudding is the real deal – rich, decadent, and absolutely delicious!
Growing up in the South, I have always been fond of bread pudding. It’s a staple dessert that we often serve during holidays and special occasions. Not only is it easy to make (even for novice bakers), but it’s also a great way to use up any stale bread you have lying around in your pantry.
My Southern Bread Pudding recipe has stood the test of time and has been passed down through generations of my family. With simple ingredients such as milk, sugar, butter, eggs, and cinnamon-spiced raisins nestled between cubes of French or white bread, you can create a dessert that is so heavenly it might just bring a tear to your eye.
Whether you make this dessert for yourself or loved ones, I guarantee that this Southern Bread Pudding will become one of your new favorite desserts. So why not give it a try? It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Y’all, let me tell you why you’re going to absolutely fall in love with this southern bread pudding recipe. It’s sweet, comforting and oh-so-easy to make. Just one bite of this rich and decadent dessert will transport you straight to the heart of the south.
First off, let’s talk about the ingredients. This recipe is made with the best bread – a loaf of french bread that has been left out to get stale overnight. Trust me, this makes all the difference in creating a perfectly textured pudding that’s just the right amount of creamy and fluffy.
Next, we’ve got eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla – all classic staples in any southern pantry. Throw in some plump raisins and crunchy pecans for texture and flavor, and you’ve got yourself a match made in heaven.
But what really makes this recipe stand out from the rest is the rich and buttery bourbon sauce that will take your taste buds on a wild ride of flavors. It ties everything together in the most delicious way possible.
And let’s not forget about presentation – this dish looks just as good as it tastes. Golden brown on top and piping hot inside, it’s perfect for serving up with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.
In short, if you haven’t had the pleasure of trying out an authentic southern bread pudding recipe yet, then you absolutely need to try this one. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also an affordable way to surprise loved ones with an elegant dessert that will leave them craving for more. So what are you waiting for? Head over to your kitchen and start making some magic happen!
Ingredient List
Let’s dive into the heart of the recipe – the Ingredient List. You will need some stale bread for this recipe – I recommend using French bread or any good quality white bread that is at least a day old. Don’t worry if you don’t have stale bread on hand, you can easily make it by leaving your bread out overnight to dry out slightly.
Here are all the ingredients you will need for the best Southern Bread Pudding:
Bread
- 4 cups stale bread, cubed (use a loaf of French bread or any good quality white bread)
Liquid mixture
- 4 large beaten eggs
- 3 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Optional add-ins
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Bourbon Sauce (optional)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- half cup of (1 stick) butter
- half cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of bourbon
Make sure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before getting started. Trust me, this to makes all the difference in texture and flavor. And don’t forget to read through the entire recipe before starting, so you have everything on hand and ready to go!
The Recipe How-To
Gather the ingredients
Before we start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients ready. For this southern bread pudding recipe, you will need stale bread, raisins, pecans, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, milk, and large beaten eggs.
Preheat the oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Prepare the Bread
Next, cut the bread into small cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl. At this point, you can either use a loaf of French bread or any white bread of your choice. However, using French bread for this recipe will give you the best results.
Prepare Egg Mixture
In a separate mixing bowl, mix together 4 large beaten eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Combine Ingredients
Pour the egg mixture onto the cubed bread and mix well. Add in 1 cup of raisins and 1 cup of chopped pecans to the mixture. Pour everything into a greased baking dish. Pro tip: use softened butter to grease the baking dish for that extra buttery goodness.
Bake It
Bake the bread pudding in your preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 45 minutes until it’s golden on top and firm in the middle.
Make Bourbon Sauce (Optional)
If you want to jazz up your southern bread pudding even more, consider making a bourbon sauce. In a small saucepan on low-medium heat, mix together 1/2 cup of butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until well combined. Then add in 2 beaten eggs and whisk until incorporated. Finally, add in 1/2 cup of half-and-half and bring the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of bourbon.
That’s it! Your southern bread pudding is now ready to be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top or drizzled with the optional bourbon sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Substitutions and Variations
Listen up, y’all! One of the fun things about cooking is experimenting and trying new things. Don’t be afraid to add your own twist to this southern bread pudding recipe. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try out:
– Swap the raisins and pecans for other add-ins like cranberries, chopped apples or apricots for a fruity twist. Or how about some dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut for a chocolatey or tropical vibe?
– Use different types of bread. While I recommend using stale French bread for the best texture, you could also use other types of bread like brioche, croissant or even white bread. Keep in mind that the type of bread will affect the final result.
– Make it booze-infused! For an adults-only version, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture before pouring it over the bread cubes.
– Change up the spices. Instead of cinnamon and nutmeg, try using pumpkin pie spice, cardamom, ginger or allspice for different flavor profiles.
– Serve with different toppings. While plain vanilla ice cream is always a good choice for serving with bread pudding, you could also experiment with other toppings like whipped cream, caramel sauce, powdered sugar or fresh berries.
Remember that cooking is all about having fun and being creative. So go ahead and try out some substitutions and variations to make this Southern Bread Pudding Recipe truly your own!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have made this fantastic Southern bread pudding, it’s time to serve and savor its deliciousness! This delectable dessert is best served hot with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top to cool down the warm flavors.
For an indulgent twist, why not try topping your ice cream with a handful of crunchy pecans, or some juicy raisins to add a fruity sweetness. If you prefer a richer taste, pour some buttery caramel or bourbon sauce over the pudding and let it soak in for a few minutes.
For pairing, this traditional Southern dessert goes well with a glass of cold milk or hot tea, especially during chilly evenings. You might also want to consider pairing it with some warm whiskey or red wine for an extra sophisticated touch.
If you’re serving this recipe at a gathering or party, why not make smaller portions in muffin cups for easier sharing? Or cut them into bite-size cubes and present them in cocktail glasses topped with a dab of whipped cream and some cinnamon sprinkles for presentation.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair this incredible southern bread pudding recipe, its flavors are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to Southern Bread Pudding, it’s hard to resist a second serving. But what if you prepare too much or have leftovers? Don’t worry, there are ways to store and reheat your pudding without losing any of its deliciousness.
Firstly, you can make the bread pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for up to two days. Then when you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
If you’ve already served the bread pudding and want to store leftovers, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days, making sure to eat it by then as the longer it sits, the more likely it will spoil.
Now, let’s talk about reheating. If you’re only reheating a single serving of bread pudding, then use the microwave. Heat for about 20-30 seconds on high or until warm throughout. But if you’re reheating the entire pudding or a large quantity, use an oven preheated at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Remember, if reheating with the bourbon sauce still on top, remove before reheating as microwaving or baking could cause it to curdle. You can always spoon more on after reheating though!
In conclusion, don’t be scared of having too much Southern Bread Pudding as there are excellent ways to save leftovers and reheat them for another day. Just make sure to follow these simple steps and enjoy your tasty treat anytime!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making the best southern-style bread pudding, there are a few tips that can take your dessert from good to great. As a seasoned chef in this cuisine, I’m here to share my secrets to achieving the perfect bread pudding every time.
First and foremost, opt for the best bread you can find. Whether it’s french bread or white bread, stale or fresh, it’s important that your bread cubes are able to soak up the custard mixture without losing their texture. If your bread is too fresh, consider letting it dry out for a few hours before cutting into cubes.
Speaking of the custard mixture, be sure to whisk all of the ingredients together until they are fully combined. The eggs should be beaten well and the spices distributed evenly for optimal taste.
Another tip for perfect results is to allow the bread cubes to fully soak in the custard mixture. This requires patience since allowing the bread to sit overnight in the mixture can truly make all the difference. If you’re short on time, let the mixture soak for at least 30 minutes before baking.
When it comes time to bake your southern-style bread pudding, be sure that your oven is preheated and at the correct temperature. A temperature that’s too high could cause your pudding to burn while an oven that’s not preheated enough may result in an undercooked center.
Finally, don’t forget about presentation! Top with pecans or raisins for added texture and flavor or drizzle with a bourbon sauce for an authentic New Orleans touch. And of course, always serve warm with a scoop of ice cream on top for a delicious finish.
By following these tips and tricks, you’re sure to create the best southern-style bread pudding imaginable. Enjoy!
FAQ
Before you head to the kitchen and start making this delicious Southern Bread Pudding Recipe, take a few moments to read the frequently asked questions. I’ve prepared answers to common inquiries about this recipe, so you don’t have to worry about unexpected issues that may arise while cooking. These answers will help you ensure perfect results even if it’s your first time making bread pudding or if you’re looking for ways on how to tweak some of the ingredients in this recipe. So, let’s get into it and answer those questions!
How do you make Paula Deen’s bread pudding?
For this southern-style dessert recipe, you’ll need some granulated sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, Italian bread that’s been left to stale overnight, light brown sugar, butter (both melted and softened), and chopped pecans. We’ll divide the sugar and vanilla extract during the cooking process, and use the eggs to add some richness to the dish. The bread will provide a hearty texture to the final product, while the brown sugar and butter will give it a nice caramel flavor. The pecans will add some crunch and nuttiness to the dish as well.
What is bread pudding sauce made of?
To create a decadent vanilla sauce, begin by combining milk, brown sugar, butter, egg, flour, cinnamon, and salt in a sturdy saucepan. Whisk the ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and continue to whisk the ingredients constantly. After about 10 to 12 minutes, the mixture will thicken and form a coating on the back of a spoon. Finally, add some rich vanilla extract to the sauce and give it a good stir.
How does Gordon Ramsay make bread pudding?
For this delicious southern-style recipe, you will need softened butter for greasing, apricot jam for a touch of sweetness, freshly baked pains au chocolat sliced into 1cm pieces, ground cinnamon for a warm flavor, demerara sugar for a crunchy texture, golden raisins for a chewy bite, whole milk to create a creamy base, and double cream for added richness. Keep reading for my detailed instructions on how to whip up this delightful dish!
Should bread pudding be refrigerated overnight before baking?
To prepare our delicious bread pudding, begin by refrigerating it for up to 24 hours to let all the flavors meld together. Once ready, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Then, take the baking dish out of the fridge, discard any plastic wrapping around it, and place it in the oven. Allow it to cook for 45 minutes or until the surface turns golden brown and the mixture of milk and other ingredients has completely set.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Southern Bread Pudding Recipe is the epitome of comfort food that will warm your heart and fill you with joy. With its classic ingredients of bread, milk, sugar, and eggs, it is a versatile dessert that can be served with different toppings like ice cream, pecans or raisins. This recipe is perfect for those who want to introduce their tastebuds to the authentic New Orleans-style cuisine.
So why not make this recipe today? It’s easy, affordable and will leave you feeling satisfied with every bite. Whether you’re serving guests or indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, this pudding recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
So gather up your ingredients and get ready to make the best bread pudding ever! Be sure to follow the tips and recommendations we have provided throughout the article to ensure perfect results every time. Also, do not hesitate to make substitutions and variations according to your taste preferences.
In short, this pudding recipe creates an Old-fashioned Southern delight that will win hearts and minds. It’s rich velvet texture with warm spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg combined with softened butter makes it the ultimate comfort food that everyone craves for. So go ahead, give this authentic Southern Bread Pudding Recipe a try and thank us later!
Southern Bread Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 cups rhodes white bread, baked and cubed
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups milk or 2 cups cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
- ice cream or whipping cream, if desired
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat eggs on high speed until frothy. Add milk and sugar and continue beating. Add vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon and melted butter and beat again. Gently fold in bread cubes, raisins and pecans. Pour mixture into a sprayed 9-inch square pan. Cover and refrigerate for 40- 60 minutes. Remove from refrigerator, uncover and bake at 325°F 45-60 minutes or until firm and brown. Cool slightly and cut into squares. Serve warm with ice cream or whipping cream if desired.