custard for bread pudding recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best custard for bread pudding recipe

Custard for bread pudding is a classic dessert that has been a staple in many households for generations. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that consists of a rich custard made with eggs, sugar, and milk, poured over stale bread, and baked until golden brown. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

There’s something about the combination of the creamy custard and the crispy bread that just feels like home. When I’m looking for a comforting dessert to serve at family gatherings or special occasions, this is always my go-to recipe. And the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make – just mix together the custard ingredients, pour them over the bread, and bake until done.

I love how versatile this recipe is too – you can customize it with your favorite flavors and add-ins, from vanilla extract to cinnamon or nutmeg. My kids love helping me make this recipe because they get to get their hands dirty with the mixing and pouring process. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love getting their hands on a warm slice of freshly baked bread pudding?

It’s just one of those desserts that never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face. The history of bread pudding itself dates back to medieval times when cooks would use stale bread to create hearty meals for the poor. But over time, it evolved into a sweet treat that’s perfect for special occasions or just because.

When I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed, baking a batch of bread pudding always seems to calm me down – maybe it’s the soothing sound of the oven or the satisfying aroma of melting butter and sugar. Whatever it is, I know that this recipe will always be there for me when I need it.

Custard for Bread Pudding

4.7 from 1857 votes

A rich and creamy custard recipe perfect for making bread pudding. This custard is smooth and velvety, ensuring a delightful texture for your bread pudding.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 200 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Custard

2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.
2This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3Add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4Mix well to combine.
5In a saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
6You will see small bubbles forming around the edges of the pan.
7Remove from heat immediately to prevent scorching.
8Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.
9This process is called tempering.
10Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
11Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
12This step removes any lumps and ensures a smooth custard.
13Discard any solids left in the sieve.
14Preheat your oven to 325°F.
15Pour the custard mixture into a baking dish.
16Place the dish in a larger baking pan and fill the pan with hot water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the dish.
17This is known as a water bath or bain-marie.
18Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is set.
19The edges should be firm, and the center should still be slightly jiggly.
20Be careful not to overbake, as the custard can become dry.
21Remove the custard from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
22Once cooled, cover the custard with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
23Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before using in your bread pudding recipe.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Saucepan
Thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 200 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 155mg🧂Sodium: 120mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

Tips: Ensure that the milk mixture does not boil, as this can cause the custard to curdle. For a richer custard, you can increase the amount of heavy cream.

I’ve been making this custard for bread pudding recipe for years and it never fails to impress my family and friends. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want something comforting after a long day.

The key technique here is letting the custard mixture chill in the fridge before assembling and baking the bread pudding – it makes all the difference in texture and flavor. This recipe also stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezes well for up to 2 months – making it perfect for meal prep or special occasion leftovers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Custard for Bread Pudding

Q: What type of bread should I use for this recipe?

The best type of bread to use for this recipe is stale white bread, but you can also use whole wheat or even gluten-free options if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the custard mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling the bread pudding.

Q: How long does it take to bake?

The baking time will depend on your oven and the size of your dish, but typically it takes around 25-35 minutes for the top to be golden brown.

Q: Can I add any mix-ins or flavorings?

Yes, you can customize this recipe with your favorite mix-ins such as raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains eggs which are not suitable for vegetarians.

Similar Posts