BREAD AND BUTTER PUDDING

Description: Bread and Butter Pudding is a traditional British dessert that has also become a beloved classic in Ireland. It’s a comforting dish made from slices of bread (often slightly stale), layered with butter, raisins, and custard, then baked until golden and crispy on top. This dessert is perfect for using up leftover bread and creates a warm, creamy, and flavorful treat.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Serving Size: Serves 6

Ingredients:

6 slices of day-old white bread
50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened
100g (1/2 cup) raisins or sultanas
3 large eggs
350ml (1 1/2 cups) whole milk
150ml (2/3 cup) heavy cream
75g (1/3 cup) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 1.5-liter (6-cup) baking dish with butter.
Prepare the Bread: Butter the slices of bread on one side. Cut each slice into triangles or squares, then layer half of the bread in the greased baking dish, buttered side up.
Add Raisins: Sprinkle half of the raisins over the bread layer. Then add another layer of buttered bread, followed by the remaining raisins.
Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. If using, add the lemon zest for extra flavor.
Assemble the Pudding: Pour the custard mixture over the bread layers, ensuring all the bread is soaked. Gently press the bread down to help it absorb the custard.
Bake: Let the pudding sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard. Then, bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Serve: Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious served warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of custard.