Irresistible Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding Recipe

The sweet aroma of vanilla and cinnamon wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace as you take your first bite of Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding. This delightful dessert boasts a custardy interior, perfectly contrasted by a golden, slightly crispy top that calls out to your taste buds with promises of indulgence and comfort.

Picture this: it’s a rainy day, and you’re cozied up at home, reminiscing about a trip to the vibrant streets of New Orleans. Whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras or just need comfort food on a Tuesday, this bread pudding not only satisfies your cravings but also brings back memories of jazz music and bustling markets. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will make you feel like you’re on Bourbon Street, minus the hangover!

Ingredients for Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Day-Old Bread: Use any bread you have on hand—French bread or brioche works wonderfully for soaking up all those flavors.

• Milk: Whole milk provides creaminess, but feel free to use any milk substitute if preferred.

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pudding; adjust depending on your sweetness preference.

• Eggs: These create the custard base; use large eggs for best results.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla for that extra special touch.

• Cinnamon: A must-have spice that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite.

• Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds an aromatic charm that pairs perfectly with the other spices.

• Dried Raisins or Currants: For added sweetness and texture; soak them in water or juice for extra plumpness!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations later.

Step 2: Tear Up That Bread

Take your day-old bread and tear it into bite-sized pieces. Place those glorious chunks into your greased baking dish like you’re arranging little pillows of joy.

Step 3: Create the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Channel your inner whisking champion here—it should be smooth and creamy!

Step 4: Combine and Soak

Pour the custard mixture over the torn bread pieces. Gently stir everything together until all the bread is soaked—let it sit for about 10 minutes so the bread can absorb all that deliciousness.

Step 5: Add Those Dried Fruits

Sprinkle raisins or currants over the top of your pudding mixture. They will add little bursts of sweetness with every bite!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center. Your kitchen will smell heavenly—try not to eat it straight from the oven!

Serve warm with a drizzle of creamy sauce or ice cream on top if you’re feeling extra indulgent!

There you have it—a heartwarming Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding that’s guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you! Enjoy every last crumb because trust me, you won’t want any leftovers!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, combine your bread cubes with milk and eggs in a bowl. Let them soak while you prepare your sauce—this will ensure a moist bread pudding.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the vanilla for almond extract or toss in some chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. Want some spice? A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavors beautifully!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Sometimes I whip up this Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding when friends are over, and their smiles after the first bite remind me why I love cooking so much!

FAQs:

What are the key ingredients for Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding?

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding features simple yet flavorful ingredients, including stale bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. For a delightful twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. You can also incorporate chocolate chips or dried fruits to enhance the flavor profile. Instead of traditional gelatin, use plant-based gelling agents such as agar-agar if needed. This recipe is perfect for using leftover bread while creating a delicious dessert that everyone will enjoy.

Can I substitute the bread in Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes often call for French or Italian bread, you can use any type of bread you have on hand. Brioche, challah, or even whole grain bread works well too. The key is to ensure the bread is stale, as this helps absorb the custard mixture better. Feel free to experiment with flavors by using different types of bread to create a unique twist on this beloved dessert.

How do I serve Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding?

To serve Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding, allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature. Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream on top for added indulgence. Pairing it with fresh fruit or whipped cream can elevate the dish even further. This versatile dessert makes a wonderful ending to any meal and is sure to impress your guests.

Can I make Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding in advance. Simply assemble the pudding mixture and refrigerate it overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that the bread absorbs the custard fully. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven according to the recipe instructions. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days—just reheat when you’re ready to indulge again.

Conclusion for Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is an irresistible dessert that combines simplicity with rich flavor. Using accessible ingredients like stale bread and eggs, this recipe adapts easily for various tastes and dietary needs by substituting pork products and gelatin alternatives appropriately. Whether served warm with a drizzle of sauce or chilled with ice cream, this treat captures hearts at any gathering. Embrace its versatility and enjoy making lasting memories around this classic dish!

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Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

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• Author: charlies
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert that combines the rich flavors of vanilla and cinnamon with day-old bread to create a custardy delight. Topped with a golden-brown crust, this indulgent treat will transport you to the lively streets of New Orleans. Perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed warm or chilled, it promises to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups day-old bread, torn into pieces
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cup dried raisins or currants (soaked in water or juice)

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Instructions

1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. 2. Tear the day-old bread into bite-sized pieces and place in the prepared baking dish.
3. 3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
4. 4. Pour the custard mixture over the bread pieces and gently stir until all are soaked. Let sit for 10 minutes.
5. 5. Sprinkle soaked raisins or currants on top.
6. 6. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
7. 7. Serve warm with optional creamy sauce or ice cream.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 110g)
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: - For added flavor variations, substitute almond extract for vanilla or mix in chocolate chips or nuts. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat before serving.