A Taste of the Big Easy
New Orleans is a city known for its rich history, jazz-filled streets, and, of course, its legendary food. Among the many beloved Southern desserts, bread pudding holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Traditionally made with stale French bread, warm spices, and a luscious custard, this dessert is transformed into a masterpiece when drizzled with a buttery bourbon sauce. Whether served for Sunday brunch or as a comforting after-dinner treat, this bread pudding embodies the soulful flavors of New Orleans.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
1 loaf of French bread (about 10 cups, cubed)
2 ½ cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup raisins (optional)
For the Bourbon Sauce:
½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons bourbon (or vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Cut the French bread into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugars, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and gently toss to coat. Let the mixture sit for 15–20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Stir in the melted butter and raisins (if using), then transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Prepare the Bourbon Sauce
- While the pudding bakes, make the sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add heavy cream and sugar, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon (or vanilla extract).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with warm bourbon sauce and enjoy a taste of New Orleans in every bite!
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Garnish with toasted pecans for extra crunch.
For a festive touch, soak the raisins in bourbon before adding them to the pudding.