Few desserts bring the comfort of home quite like an old-fashioned Bread and Butter Pudding. This timeless treat has humble beginnings, but with just a few pantry staples, it transforms into something truly special. Buttery layers of bread soaked in a creamy, lightly sweetened custard, dotted with plump raisins and a warm hint of cinnamon — it’s simple, satisfying, and steeped in nostalgia.
Whether you’re baking it as a last-minute dessert or preparing it for a cozy weekend brunch, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients
You’ll need slices of bread, raisins, cinnamon, milk, whipped cream, eggs, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish (an 8×8 inch dish works well). Set it aside while you prepare the rest.
Start by buttering eight slices of bread. Removing the crusts is optional, but doing so creates a softer texture. Spread the melted butter generously on one side of each slice.
Lay half of the buttered bread slices, buttered side up, across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the raisins evenly over this layer, followed by a dusting of cinnamon.
Next, place the remaining bread slices on top, again buttered side up. Press the layers down slightly with your hands or a spatula.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, whipped cream, eggs, and sugar until smooth and well mixed. Pour this custard evenly over the layered bread, making sure everything is soaked. Let the mixture sit for about 10–15 minutes so the bread can absorb some of the custard.
Sprinkle a little extra sugar on top — this will give the pudding a lovely golden finish. Then bake it for about 35–40 minutes, or until the top is beautifully browned and the custard is set.
Serving Suggestions
Bread and Butter Pudding is best served warm, with a drizzle of vanilla sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream. It’s just as delicious cold the next day, when the flavors have fully settled in.
For a festive variation, you can add a touch of nutmeg, a splash of vanilla, or even swap the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates.
Final Thoughts
This pudding proves that simple ingredients can make the most comforting desserts. It’s not fancy or fussy, but it’s full of heart and warmth. Whether you’re making it as a tribute to old family recipes or simply to use up leftover bread, Bread and Butter Pudding is always a sweet idea.