Easy Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce

There’s something inherently comforting about bread pudding, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug from a dear friend on a chilly day. I remember the first time I had a slice of this heavenly dessert at my grandmother’s kitchen table, the aroma of cinnamon swirling around us as we eagerly awaited the first bite. She’d serve it warm, dripping with a rich sauce crafted with care—her secret, she’d joke, was always a splash of rum. Now, every time I make this Easy Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce, I’m transported back to that moment—appreciating the simple yet profound joy that comes from baking something delicious.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 20 minutes
• Active Cooking: 50 minutes
• Total Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 8
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 350
• Protein: 9 grams
• Carbs: 56 grams
• Fats: 12 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Sugars: 20 grams
• Sodium: 150 mg

Why You’ll Love This Easy Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce

This bread pudding is not just easy to make; it’s a canvas for your creativity. Soft, fluffy bread soaking in a sweet, custardy mixture delivers a dessert that is both nostalgic and new. The optional raisins lend a touch of chewiness, while the warm, buttery rum sauce elevates it to a different level. Perfect for using up day-old bread or for a cozy family gathering, this dish embodies the spirit of togetherness and indulgence.

The Complete Cooking Journey

Let’s embark on this delightful journey where old bread transforms into a luscious dessert. You’ll begin with simple ingredients, each playing a starring role in this warm, comforting dish. As you whisk, fold, and bake, you’ll unlock an aroma that fills your kitchen—a sure sign that happiness is just around the corner.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups of cubed bread
• 4 cups of milk
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
• 1/2 cup of rum (for the sauce)
• 1/2 cup of butter
• 1 cup of powdered sugar

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish to prepare for the sweet goodness to come.

Step 2: Whisk Your Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Add the cubed bread into the mixture. If you’re using raisins, toss them in as well. Let everything soak together for 15-20 minutes—this step is crucial for allowing the bread to absorb all that creamy goodness.

Step 4: Pour Into Baking Dish

After soaking, pour the luscious mixture into your greased baking dish, settling the bread evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the pudding is golden and set, filling your space with delicious aromas.

Step 6: Create the Rum Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the powdered sugar and rum, cooking until it’s all smooth and heated through, making sure not to rush this part!

Step 7: Serve with Love

Once the bread pudding is baked and slightly cooled, serve it warm with your homemade rum sauce drizzled generously on top.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This scrumptious bread pudding shines when served warm. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a dusty glass of dessert wine—pure indulgence in every bite!

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Leftovers? Lucky you! Store any remaining bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick treat. The rum sauce can be stored separately for up to a week; simply rewarm before serving.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

1. Day-Old Bread: Use day-old or slightly dried bread for the best texture—fresh bread can get mushy.
2. Raisin Alternative: If you’re not a fan of raisins, try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
3. Eggs at Room Temperature: If possible, use room temperature eggs to help your mixture emulsify better.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feeling creative? You can customize this recipe with various spices like nutmeg or cardamom. For a tropical twist, consider using coconut milk instead of regular milk, and for a fruity finish, add chunks of fresh apple or pear.

Reader Questions & Solutions

• Can I use gluten-free bread?
  Yes, gluten-free bread works just fine! Just ensure it’s not too soft.

• What if I don’t have rum?
  You can substitute with vanilla extract or omit the alcohol altogether and use heavy cream for a rich sauce.

• How can I make this dairy-free?
  Substitute the milk with almond milk and use dairy-free butter for the sauce.

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Absolutely! Assemble the pudding ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake it the next day.

• What type of bread works best?
  Challah or brioche gives the best flavor and texture, but any bread you have on hand can work.

Wrapping Up

This Easy Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce not only serves up nostalgia and comfort, but it also invites creativity into the kitchen. I hope you take the time to make this recipe, possibly even sharing it with loved ones, just as my grandmother did. Embrace the joy of cooking, let that sweet aroma fill your home, and enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade bread pudding. Happy baking!

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