Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

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Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding: A Soulful Southern Dessert

Introduction

Bread pudding is a time-honored dessert that transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a warm, rich, and comforting treat. A staple of New Orleans cuisine, this dish is beloved for its custard-soaked bread, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and often topped with a decadent sauce. Whether served in upscale restaurants or made in home kitchens, New Orleans bread pudding represents Southern hospitality at its finest.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Bread pudding has roots in 11th-century Europe, where it was a way to use stale bread and avoid waste. Over time, the dish evolved, and when it reached New Orleans, it was infused with Creole flavors, rich spices, and sweet sauces, making it an iconic part of Louisiana cuisine. In New Orleans, bread pudding is more than a dessert; it’s a tradition, often found at jazz brunches, family gatherings, and holiday feasts. Some variations include adding bourbon to the sauce, a nod to the city’s love for spirited indulgences.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Bread Pudding:

  • 6 cups day-old French bread, cubed
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup raisins (optional, soaked in bourbon for extra flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

For the Bourbon Sauce:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup bourbon (adjust based on preference)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Additions

  • Pecans or Walnuts – For a crunchy texture.
  • Chocolate Chips – For a richer, sweeter variation.
  • Bananas or Apples – To add a fruity touch.
  • Coconut Flakes – For a tropical flair.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Stale Bread – Fresh bread will become too soggy. Let it sit out overnight for the best texture.
  2. Soak the Bread Well – Allow the bread to absorb the custard for at least 30 minutes before baking.
  3. Don’t Overbake – The pudding should be firm but still moist. Overbaking dries it out.
  4. Make the Sauce Ahead – Bourbon sauce tastes even better when it has time to meld flavors.
  5. Serve Warm – Bread pudding is best enjoyed warm with sauce drizzled over the top.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Bread

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Place the cubed bread into the dish.

Step 2: Make the Custard

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  2. Stir in the melted butter.

Step 3: Soak and Bake

  1. Pour the custard over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help absorption.
  2. Let sit for 30 minutes so the bread soaks up the liquid.
  3. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.

Step 4: Make the Bourbon Sauce

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add the heavy cream and brown sugar, whisking until sugar dissolves.
  3. Stir in the bourbon and vanilla. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Let the bread pudding cool slightly before drizzling with warm bourbon sauce. Serve and enjoy!

Description

This Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is rich, custardy, and infused with warm spices. The soft, soaked bread melds with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, creating a nostalgic, heartwarming dessert. The bourbon sauce adds a silky, buttery finish with a hint of caramelized sweetness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Sugars: 30g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 200mg

Conclusion

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is more than just dessert—it’s a celebration of culture, history, and Southern comfort. Whether served at a Sunday brunch or a holiday gathering, it brings warmth and tradition to the table.

Recommendation

Pair this dish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an even more indulgent treat. If you love bold flavors, try adding a hint of orange zest or swapping bourbon for spiced rum in the sauce.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this dessert is undeniably rich, you can make small adjustments to enjoy it in a balanced way. Substitute whole milk with almond milk, use less sugar, or swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt. The result is still delicious without compromising flavor.

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