Classic British Bread and Butter Pudding
Description
Enjoy a classic British bread and butter pudding made with buttery bread, creamy custard, juicy sultanas, and a hint of warming spice. This traditional bread and butter pudding recipe is an easy, comforting dessert that transforms simple pantry ingredients into something wonderfully rich and satisfying. Golden and crisp on top, soft and custardy in the centre, and delicately flavoured with cinnamon and vanilla, it is perfect for family dinners, Sunday lunches, or cosy afternoons. Whether you use white bread, brioche, or leftover slices, this easy homemade pudding is a delicious way to reduce food waste while creating a timeless British dessert everyone will love.
Classic British Bread and Butter Pudding
This traditional bread and butter pudding recipe is an easy, comfortingdessert that transforms simple pantry ingredients into something wonderfullyrich and satisfying.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F. Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter.
- Butter both sides of each slice of bread generously.
- Cut the bread into triangles and arrange half of the slices in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the sultanas evenly over the bread, then arrange the remaining bread on top and scatter over the remaining sultanas.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, double cream, caster sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure all the slices are moistened.
- Gently press the bread down into the custard and leave it to soak for about 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle the demerara sugar over the top for a delicious crisp, caramelised finish.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and the custard is set but still slightly soft in the centre.
- Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving warm with custard, cream, or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Chef’s Tips
- Use slightly stale bread: It absorbs the custard beautifully without becoming too soggy.
- Try brioche: For a richer, more luxurious pudding, substitute brioche for standard white bread.
- Soak before baking: Giving the bread time to absorb the custard creates a soft, creamy centre.
- Don’t overbake: Remove the pudding when the centre has just set; it will continue cooking slightly as it rests.
- Add extra flavour: A little orange zest, mixed spice, or a splash of brandy can add a delicious twist.
- Serve warm: Classic bread and butter pudding is especially delicious with warm custard poured over the top.
