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Orleans Bread Pudding

Orleans Bread Pudding
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Orleans Bread Pudding is a rich and custardy dessert inspired by New Orleans cuisine, featuring soft stale bread soaked in a luscious mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and cream. With a perfect balance of creamy custard and a slightly crisp bread topping, it’s an easy-to-make, comforting treat ideal for family gatherings, dinner parties, or weekend indulgences. This recipe uses simple pantry staples and offers versatile options to customize with fruits, nuts, chocolate, or dairy-free alternatives.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6 cups stale French bread or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish (plus extra for drizzling, optional)

Optional Spices and Add-ins

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 cup raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apples (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or Nutella swirl (optional)
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

Dairy-Free Substitutions (optional)

  • 2 cups coconut milk (or other plant-based milk) instead of whole milk
  • 1 cup plant-based cream instead of heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut stale French bread or brioche into 1-inch cubes. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and lightly toast in the oven if not already firm, to help the bread absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
  2. Make the Custard Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, whole milk, and heavy cream until fully combined. If desired, add cinnamon or nutmeg to infuse the custard with a warm, spiced flavor.
  3. Combine Bread and Custard: Grease a baking dish with butter and place the bread cubes inside. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently with a spatula so all pieces soak up the liquid. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to maximize absorption.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Set: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pudding for 45-55 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden brown with a slight crisp.
  5. Cool and Serve: Allow the Orleans Bread Pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the custard firm up slightly, enhancing the texture.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for best texture, as fresh bread can become too mushy.
  • Letting the bread soak for at least 15 minutes yields a richer custard texture.
  • Avoid overbaking to keep the pudding moist; remove when the center is just set.
  • Use full-fat dairy to improve flavor and creaminess.
  • Serve with caramel sauce, bourbon glaze, whipped cream, or fresh berries for added indulgence.

Nutrition

Keywords: Orleans Bread Pudding, New Orleans dessert, custard dessert, bread pudding recipe, classic bread pudding, comfort food dessert

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/orleans-bread-pudding/