Name: Irresistible Sourdough Bread Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups stale sourdough bread, torn into bite-sized pieces; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk (or almond/oat milk); 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup dried fruit (e.g., raisins or chopped apricots) (optional)

Sourdough bread pudding is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine diving into a bowl of this creamy, comforting dessert, with its golden crust and gooey center, while the sweet aroma of vanilla and cinnamon wafts through your kitchen. It’s like being wrapped in a fluffy blanket made of delicious carbs that whisper sweet nothings to your taste buds.

Now, let me take you back to that rainy afternoon when I first discovered this delightful treat. My grandmother, a master of improvisation (and chaos), decided to turn her leftover sourdough into something magical. The kitchen filled with laughter and mouthwatering scents as we eagerly anticipated the glorious moment when we could dig in. This dish perfectly fits any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to unexpected visits from friends looking for comfort food. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience that will leave you wanting more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Sourdough bread pudding is incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
The flavor profile is a delightful blend of sweetness with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
Visually, it boasts a stunning golden-brown crust that beckons for attention on any dessert table.
This recipe is versatile enough to customize with your favorite fruits or nuts, adapting to whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients for Sourdough Bread Pudding

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Sourdough Bread: Use stale sourdough for best results; it soaks up the custard beautifully while adding tangy flavor.
Eggs: These are essential for creating a rich custard texture; large eggs work best.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; feel free to substitute with almond milk or oat milk if preferred.
Cream: Heavy cream enhances the richness; however, you can use half-and-half if you’re feeling light-hearted.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key; adjust according to your preference—add more if you’re feeling daring!
Cinnamon: A must-have spice that brings warmth and nostalgia; freshly ground cinnamon works wonders.
Vanilla Extract: Choose pure vanilla extract for an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
Dried Fruit (optional): Raisins or chopped apricots add delightful sweetness and chewiness—perfect for adventurous eaters!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Sourdough Bread Pudding

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and generously grease it with butter or cooking spray—no one likes a stuck dessert!

Step 2: Tear Up the Bread

Take your stale sourdough bread and tear it into bite-sized pieces, about one inch in size. This might feel therapeutic—go ahead and channel your inner baker! Place those glorious pieces into your greased baking dish.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined. You want it smooth enough that it could practically serenade you.

Step 4: Pour Custard Over Bread

Slowly pour the custard mixture over the torn bread pieces in your baking dish. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula or your hands (clean hands only!) so each piece soaks up all that luscious liquid goodness.

Step 5: Add Dried Fruit

If you’re using dried fruit, sprinkle it evenly over the top of your soaked bread mixture. This step is optional but highly recommended for an extra kick of flavor!

Step 6: Bake Away

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the middle. You’ll know it’s done when it springs back gently when touched.

Transfer to plates and serve warm—perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or scoop of ice cream on top for an indulgent twist. Enjoy every gooey bite as you bask in culinary triumph!

You Must Know

Sourdough Bread Pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a hug in a bowl.
This recipe turns stale bread into a delightful treat that’s easy to whip up, and you can customize it with your favorite flavors.
It’s perfect for using up leftover sourdough while impressing your guests!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by tearing the stale sourdough into bite-sized pieces. Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and spices in a bowl. Combine the bread with this mix, ensuring each piece gets soaked. Pour it into a greased baking dish and bake until golden brown and set.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients! Add chocolate chips for a sweet touch or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for chewy bursts of flavor. You can also sprinkle nuts on top for extra crunch or use different spices like nutmeg or vanilla.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use day-old sourdough for the best texture; it soaks up the custard beautifully without turning mushy.
Don’t skip letting it sit before baking — this helps flavors meld.
A dash of cinnamon elevates the flavor profile, making every bite irresistible.

Sometimes I make Sourdough Bread Pudding just to watch my friends’ eyes light up when they taste it. Their delighted reactions remind me why I love cooking and sharing food with loved ones!

FAQs

What is Sourdough Bread Pudding?

Sourdough bread pudding is a delicious dessert made by soaking stale sourdough bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and spices. This classic dish transforms leftover bread into a warm and comforting treat. The tangy flavor of sourdough adds depth to the pudding, making it unique compared to traditional bread puddings. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with sauce, this dessert is perfect for using up excess sourdough.

How do you make Sourdough Bread Pudding?

To make sourdough bread pudding, first cut the stale sourdough into cubes. Next, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in a bowl. Combine the bread cubes with this mixture and let them soak for about 30 minutes. Then bake the mixture in a greased dish until it sets and turns golden brown. The process is simple and results in a delightful dessert.

Can I add fruits or nuts to Sourdough Bread Pudding?

Yes! Adding fruits or nuts can enhance the flavor of sourdough bread pudding significantly. Common choices include raisins, blueberries, or chopped apples for sweetness and texture. You can also incorporate nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch. Just mix them into the soaked bread mixture before baking to create a deliciously varied dish.

How should I store leftover Sourdough Bread Pudding?

Store leftover sourdough bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the pudding overnight in the fridge and then warm it in an oven at 350°F until heated through.

Conclusion for Sourdough Bread Pudding

Sourdough bread pudding is a fantastic way to repurpose stale sourdough into a delectable dessert. By soaking the bread in an egg and milk mixture and baking it to perfection, you create a comforting dish that everyone will love. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or nuts to customize your recipe further. Enjoy this rich treat warm from the oven for an unforgettable experience!