Introduction
Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is a beloved dessert that embodies the rich culinary heritage of the Crescent City. This dish combines stale bread with a creamy custard, spices, and often a hint of bourbon or rum, making it a perfect comfort food. Whether served warm with a drizzle of sauce or enjoyed cold, this bread pudding is sure to please both locals and visitors alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Bread: 6 to 8 cups of day-old bread, cut into cubes
Milk: 2 cups
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Sugar: 1 cup
Eggs: 4 large
Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Raisins: 1 cup (optional)
Bourbon or Rum: 1/4 cup (optional)
Prep Time
The preparation time for this classic dessert takes approximately 20-30 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients, cutting the bread, and mixing the custard.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 8-10 people
This delightful dish not only charms with its taste but also provides a nostalgic connection to the heart of New Orleans. Enjoy it as a dessert for gatherings or as a sweet treat for yourself.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the bread pudding.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Cut the bread into cubes. Use stale bread for a better texture or leave fresh bread out overnight to dry.
Step 3: Combine the Milk and Cream
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and heavy cream until well combined.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Eggs
Mix in the sugar and eggs into the milk and cream mixture until fully integrated.
Step 5: Incorporate Vanilla and Nutmeg
Add vanilla extract and nutmeg, stirring to blend all ingredients completely.
Step 6: Mix Bread Cubes
Gently fold the bread cubes into the mixture, ensuring all pieces are soaked evenly.
Step 7: Let it Rest
Allow the mixture to sit for about 30 minutes to let the bread absorb the liquid.
Step 8: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 9: Transfer the Mixture
Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 10: Bake the Pudding
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 11: Cool and Serve
Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Serving Suggestions
Serve the bread pudding warm with a drizzle of sauce, such as bourbon sauce or a scoop of ice cream.
Note 2: Storage
Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 3: Variations
Consider adding raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture to your bread pudding.