Imagine a dessert that captures the heart of Texas hospitality in every single bite - a warm, custardy bread pudding that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece! This West Texas-style bread pudding isn't just a recipe; it's a nostalgic journey through rustic kitchens and family gatherings, where every spoonful tells a story of comfort, tradition, and pure culinary magic. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious home cook, this recipe promises to transport you to the warm, welcoming kitchens of the Lone Star State.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups bread, cubed
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Take day-old bread and cut into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, lightly toast the cubes in the oven for 5-10 minutes to dry them out slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined and smooth.
- Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly. Sprinkle raisins throughout the bread cubes.
- Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are evenly moistened. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
- Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the liquid mixture.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. The pudding will continue to set as it cools.
- Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips
- • Use day-old bread for the best texture - slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture more effectively. • Don't rush the soaking process - letting the bread sit in the egg mixture helps create a rich, creamy consistency. • For extra indulgence, experiment with different mix-ins like pecans, chocolate chips, or a splash of bourbon. • Make sure to butter your baking dish generously to prevent sticking. • Let the pudding rest after baking - this helps it set and makes serving easier. • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for the ultimate comfort dessert experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
