The Hairy Bikers’ Bread and Butter Pudding is a comforting, classic British dessert made with layers of buttery bread, a creamy custard, and just a hint of spice. This warm, custardy pudding is perfect for cozy nights and is a great way to use up leftover bread. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of custard for a traditional treat.
What Is Hairy Bikers’ Bread and Butter Pudding?
The Hairy Bikers’ Bread and Butter Pudding is a traditional British dessert that uses stale bread to create a delicious, warm pudding. Slices of buttered bread are layered with dried fruit and then baked in a creamy, spiced custard. This pudding is an easy-to-make classic that’s satisfying, budget-friendly, and perfect for any occasion.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Comfort Food: A warm, nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for cozy nights.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Uses Up Leftover Bread: A great way to avoid waste and make something delicious.
- Rich and Custardy: The creamy custard and buttery bread create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Versatile Toppings: Delicious with custard, cream, or ice cream.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Bread and Butter Pudding
- 8 slices of stale white bread (crusts removed) – Creates the base for the pudding.
- 50g butter (softened) – For buttering the bread slices.
- 75g sultanas or raisins – Adds a sweet, fruity flavor.
- 500ml whole milk – Makes the custard rich and creamy.
- 100ml double cream – Adds extra richness to the custard.
- 3 large eggs – Bind the custard together.
- 75g caster sugar – Sweetens the custard.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg or cinnamon – For a warm, spiced finish.
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional) – Adds a touch of brightness.
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Bread and Butter Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Butter each slice of bread generously on one side, then cut each slice in half diagonally to create triangles.
Step 3: Layer the Bread and Fruit
Arrange a layer of buttered bread triangles in the base of an oven-safe baking dish, buttered side up. Sprinkle half of the sultanas or raisins over the bread. Add another layer of bread triangles, followed by the remaining dried fruit.
Step 4: Make the Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, caster sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Gradually add the milk and double cream, whisking until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Pour the Custard Over the Bread
Pour the custard mixture over the layered bread in the baking dish, making sure all pieces are soaked. Press down gently with a fork to ensure the bread absorbs the custard.
Step 6: Add Spices
Sprinkle the top with ground nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
Step 7: Bake the Pudding
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of custard, or a spoonful of whipped cream for an extra-indulgent dessert.
What Goes Well with Hairy Bikers Bread and Butter Pudding
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Adds a cold, creamy contrast to the warm pudding.
- Custard: Traditional pairing that enhances the creaminess.
- Whipped Cream: Lightens the dessert and complements the richness.
- Warm Caramel Sauce: Adds extra sweetness and depth.
- Fresh Berries: Adds a refreshing, fruity contrast.
- Chopped Nuts: For added crunch and texture.
- Honey Drizzle: Sweetens the dessert with a touch of warmth.
Expert Tips for the Best Bread and Butter Pudding
- Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a softer pudding.
- Press the Bread Down: Lightly press the bread with a fork to ensure it absorbs all the custard.
- Add Spices Sparingly: A sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon goes a long way and enhances the flavor.
- Bake Until Just Set: The pudding should be golden and slightly wobbly in the center; it will continue to set as it cools.
- Use Lemon Zest for Freshness: The lemon zest adds a fresh touch to balance the richness.
- Avoid Overbaking: Overbaking can dry out the pudding, so keep an eye on it.
Easy Variations of Hairy Bikers Bread and Butter Pudding
- Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding: Add chocolate chips between the bread layers for a chocolatey twist.
- Spiced Fruit Bread: Use cinnamon raisin or fruit bread for added flavor.
- Marmalade Spread: Spread a thin layer of marmalade on the bread slices for a citrusy touch.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Layer in sliced apples, pears, or bananas for added texture and flavor.
- Rum-Soaked Raisins: Soak raisins in rum before adding for a boozy treat.
- Swap for Brioche or Croissants: Use brioche or croissants instead of white bread for a richer flavor.
Best Practices to Store Hairy Bikers Bread and Butter Pudding
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: Warm leftovers in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until heated through, or microwave individual servings briefly.
- Avoid Freezing: Bread and butter pudding is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can affect the custard’s texture.
How Can I Make Hairy Bikers Bread and Butter Pudding Healthier?
- Use Whole-Grain Bread: Swap white bread for whole-grain or seeded bread for extra fiber.
- Reduce Sugar: Use less sugar in the custard or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey.
- Use Low-Fat Milk: Substitute whole milk and cream with low-fat or almond milk to reduce fat content.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Include apples or berries for added natural sweetness and nutrients.
- Limit Butter: Use less butter on the bread to reduce saturated fats.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I Make Hairy Bikers Bread and Butter Pudding in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare Bread and Butter Pudding in advance. Assemble the pudding with the custard poured over the bread, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Can I Use Fresh Bread for Bread and Butter Pudding?
While stale bread is preferred for better custard absorption, fresh bread can still be used. To dry it out slightly, you can toast the bread lightly or leave it uncovered for a few hours before making the pudding.
Why Did My Bread and Butter Pudding Turn Out Soggy?
A soggy pudding can result from not baking it long enough, or from using bread that doesn’t absorb the custard well. Make sure the pudding is baked until the custard is set and the top is golden brown, and use slightly stale bread for better absorption.
Can I Freeze Leftover Bread and Butter Pudding?
Yes, Bread and Butter Pudding can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through.
Final Words
The Hairy Bikers’ Bread and Butter Pudding is a comforting dessert that combines creamy custard with layers of buttery bread, a hint of spice, and sweet raisins. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread, and its warm, custardy texture makes it perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners. Enjoy it with cream, custard, or a scoop of ice cream for a truly satisfying dessert!
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Hairy Bikers Bread and Butter Pudding
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
The Hairy Bikers’ Bread and Butter Pudding is a traditional British dessert that uses stale bread to create a delicious, warm pudding. Slices of buttered bread are layered with dried fruit and then baked in a creamy, spiced custard. This pudding is an easy-to-make classic that’s satisfying, budget-friendly, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of stale white bread (crusts removed) – Creates the base for the pudding.
- 50g butter (softened) – For buttering the bread slices.
- 75g sultanas or raisins – Adds a sweet, fruity flavor.
- 500ml whole milk – Makes the custard rich and creamy.
- 100ml double cream – Adds extra richness to the custard.
- 3 large eggs – Binds the custard together.
- 75g caster sugar – Sweetens the custard.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg or cinnamon – For a warm, spiced finish.
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional) – Adds a touch of brightness.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Butter each slice of bread generously on one side, then cut each slice in half diagonally to create triangles.
Step 3: Layer the Bread and Fruit
Arrange a layer of buttered bread triangles in the base of an oven-safe baking dish, buttered side up. Sprinkle half of the sultanas or raisins over the bread. Add another layer of bread triangles, followed by the remaining dried fruit.
Step 4: Make the Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, caster sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Gradually add the milk and double cream, whisking until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Pour the Custard Over the Bread
Pour the custard mixture over the layered bread in the baking dish, making sure all pieces are soaked. Press down gently with a fork to ensure the bread absorbs the custard.
Step 6: Add Spices
Sprinkle the top with ground nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
Step 7: Bake the Pudding
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of custard, or a spoonful of whipped cream for an extra-indulgent dessert.
