Bread and Butter Pudding is a classic British dessert that turns simple bread into a rich, custardy masterpiece. This recipe focuses on a velvety texture and a golden, crunchy crust.
There is a unique kind of magic in turning humble, everyday ingredients into a masterpiece, and nothing proves that better than a Bread & Butter Pudding. My first real love for this dish began at a cozy inn during a winter trip to the Cotswolds. Outside, the air was biting, but inside, I was served a bowl of golden, custard-soaked brioche that felt like a warm hug. It was the perfect contrast—crispy, caramelized edges on top and a soft, melt-in-the-mouth center spiked with plump sultanas.
In my kitchen, I’ve refined this classic by using a touch of orange zest and a sprinkle of nutmeg to elevate the flavors from simple to sophisticated. It’s a dessert that reminds me that luxury doesn’t always require exotic ingredients; sometimes, it’s just about the harmony of butter, cream, and time. It has become my favorite way to end a Sunday roast, bringing a sense of timeless British tradition to the table.
Mastering the Contrasting Layers of a Professional Pudding
Bread & Butter Pudding is a culinary masterclass in contrasting layers, where the primary goal is a harmonious balance between a soft, pillowy interior and a shatteringly crisp exterior. In the kitchens of high-end London eateries, chefs prioritize a custard that is barely set—silky enough to melt on the tongue—while the exposed tips of the bread are toasted to a deep, caramelized golden brown. By focusing on the quality of your soak and the temperature of your bake, you can elevate this humble pantry staple into a gourmet experience that feels both light and deeply indulgent.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity. Basic ingredients such as bread, milk, eggs, sugar, and butter come together to create a rich and satisfying pudding. As the custard bakes, it soaks into the bread layers, transforming them into a soft and flavourful base. Subtle spices and dried fruit add depth, while the golden surface provides a gentle contrast in texture. This dish is perfect for cold evenings, family dinners, or when a comforting dessert is needed.
The Secret to Achieving the Perfect Consistency
For a professional result, the balance of bread and custard is vital:
- The Soak: Always let the bread sit in the custard for 20 minutes before baking. This prevents dry spots and ensures every bite is moist.
- Bread Choice: Use Brioche or slightly stale white bread for better absorption.
Serves: 6
Total Time: 60 minutes
Flavour Profile: Sweet, creamy, lightly spiced, and comforting
Ingredients
- For the pudding:
- 8 slices white or brioche bread
- 60 g unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup raisins or sultanas
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup caster sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- For topping:
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Light dusting of nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare the bread:
- Butter each slice of bread and cut into triangles or rectangles. Arrange half of the bread in a greased baking dish, overlapping slightly.
- Add fruit and layers:
- Sprinkle half of the raisins over the bread. Add the remaining bread slices and scatter the rest of the raisins on top.
- Make the custard:
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, caster sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Assemble the pudding:
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread layers. Press gently to ensure all bread is soaked. Allow to rest for 15 minutes.
- Bake the pudding:
- Sprinkle brown sugar and a light dusting of nutmeg over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 35–40 minutes until golden and set.
- Rest before serving:
- Remove from the oven and allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving.
🍽 Pro-Tips for Success
- Storage: Keep in the fridge for 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the top crispy.
- Don’t Overbake: If it gets too firm, the eggs will scramble. Keep that slight “wobble.”
- Serving: Best served warm with a pour of fresh cream or vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition*
- Per serving:
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Potassium: 210 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Calcium: 180 mg
- Iron: 2.3 mg
*Nutrition data is calculated by an automated system and may vary, so it is provided as an estimate.
Bread & Butter Pudding remains a timeless dessert because it transforms everyday ingredients into something warm and indulgent. With its soft custard, spiced flavour, and golden top, it delivers comfort and satisfaction with minimal effort. Simple, economical, and deeply comforting, this pudding continues to be a cherished part of British home cooking.