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–+ servings
Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a classic comfort food with humble beginnings. Originating in 11th-century Europe, it was a way to make use of stale bread, turning waste into a delicious dessert. This frugal dish has evolved across cultures, often enriched with local flavors like dried fruits, nuts, or spices. The American version typically includes milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla, ingredients that create a creamy custard base around the bread. This specific vintage recipe highlights the simplicity and heartiness of mid-20th-century American home cooking. Whether served warm or cold, plain or with a drizzle of sauce, bread pudding remains a beloved dessert that proves old-fashioned flavors never go out of style.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 270 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups bread pieces (cubed)
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 dash salt
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ tsp vanilla

Instructions
 

Step 1 – Prepare the Baking Dish

  • Butter a 1-quart baking dish.
  • Add 2 cups of cubed bread pieces into the dish.

Step 2 – Make the Milk Mixture

  • In a saucepan, combine 2 cups milk, 3 tbsp butter, and ¼ cup sugar.
  • Heat just until the butter melts and sugar dissolves, stirring constantly.

Step 3 – Add Eggs and Flavoring

  • Beat 2 eggs slightly in a bowl.
  • Add a dash of salt and ½ tsp vanilla.
  • Slowly stir in the warm milk mixture to temper the eggs.

Step 4 – Assemble and Bake

  • Pour the milk mixture over the cubed bread in the baking dish.
  • Place the dish in a larger pan filled with hot water.
  • Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour, or until set.

Tips

  • Use day-old bread or brioche for a richer texture.
  • Add raisins or dried cranberries for a classic touch.
  • Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg over the top before baking.
  • Substitute half-and-half for milk for a creamier custard.
  • Serve warm with caramel sauce or whipped cream for an extra treat.

Nutrition

Calories: 270kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 140mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 90mgIron: 0.8mg
Keyword bread, bread pudding, classic baking, classic comfort food, frugal, homemade, vanilla custard, vintage recipe
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