Get ready to transform ordinary bread into a decadent dessert that will make your taste buds dance with pure joy! This isn't just any bread pudding - this is a soul-warming, bourbon-kissed masterpiece that combines the rustic charm of traditional comfort food with a grown-up twist that'll have everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to an extraordinary dessert, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary game and create a memorable eating experience that bridges nostalgia and gourmet indulgence.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed bread
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup butter (for sauce)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for sauce)
- 1/4 cup bourbon (for sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, tear or cut bread into 1-inch cubes. Use day-old bread for best texture and absorption.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined and smooth.
- Add raisins and 1/4 cup bourbon to the egg mixture, stirring gently to distribute evenly.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes and gently fold to ensure all bread is coated. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow bread to absorb liquid.
- Transfer the soaked bread mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Bake in preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- While pudding bakes, prepare bourbon sauce: Melt 1/2 cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in powdered sugar and 1/4 cup bourbon, stirring continuously until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Remove bread pudding from oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve warm, drizzling bourbon sauce generously over each serving.
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Always use day-old or slightly stale bread. Fresh bread can become too soggy, while slightly dry bread absorbs the custard perfectly.
- Don't Rush the Soaking: Let the bread soak in the egg mixture for at least 10 minutes. This allows maximum flavor absorption and ensures a custardy texture.
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F for even cooking and that golden-brown top.
- Bourbon Sauce Technique: Whisk the sauce continuously to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, silky consistency.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm for the best texture and flavor. The bourbon sauce is best drizzled just before serving to maintain its luxurious consistency.
- Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store the bread pudding and bourbon sauce separately in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 130mg
