Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of New Orleans Style Bread Pudding, a classic Southern dessert made with crumbled French bread, raisins, coconut, and pecans, all spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Served warm with a luscious whiskey sauce, this comforting treat is perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
For the Bread Pudding:
10 ounces stale French bread, crumbled (or 6-8 cups of any bread; reduce milk to 3 cups if using fresh bread)
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 eggs
1 cup raisins
2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
4 cups milk
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
For Joe’s Whiskey Sauce:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup Bourbon
Instructions:
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and position the oven rack in the lower third of the oven.
Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine all the bread pudding ingredients: crumbled bread, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, raisins, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, cinnamon, nutmeg, and milk. The mixture should be very moist but not overly soupy.
Bake the Pudding:
Pour the mixture into the buttered baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
Prepare Joe’s Whiskey Sauce:
While the bread pudding bakes, prepare Joe’s Whiskey Sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cream the butter and powdered sugar using a hand-held mixer until the butter is fully absorbed. Remove the pan from heat and whisk in the egg yolks. Gradually stir in the bourbon, mixing constantly until the sauce thickens as it cools.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the bread pudding warm, topped with the whiskey sauce for a truly indulgent experience.
Serving Tips:
Serve Warm: Bread pudding is best served warm. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Top It Off: Enhance the experience by drizzling Joe’s Whiskey Sauce generously over each serving. For an extra touch, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or shredded coconut on top for added texture and flavor. A dusting of powdered sugar can also give a beautiful finish.
Pairing: Complement the richness of the bread pudding with a cup of coffee or a dessert wine. A scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream can elevate the dish even further.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, bread pudding can be frozen. Cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen bread pudding, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Sauce Storage: Store any leftover whiskey sauce in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently before serving.
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FAQs:
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh bread, but it’s essential to reduce the amount of milk to 3 cups to prevent the pudding from becoming too soggy. Stale bread helps absorb the custard mixture better and provides a firmer texture.
What can I substitute for bourbon in the whiskey sauce?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with another type of whiskey or even a non-alcoholic option like apple cider or vanilla extract for a different flavor. However, using bourbon will provide that authentic New Orleans flair.
Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bread pudding mixture the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the baking dish, cover it, and bake it the next day. This will also allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread in place of the French bread. Ensure all other ingredients, including the whiskey and sugar, are gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion:
If you’re craving a dessert that’s rich, comforting, and oh-so-delicious, look no further than this New Orleans Style Bread Pudding. With its warm, custardy center and decadent whiskey sauce, it’s a dish that pays homage to the culinary traditions of New Orleans while delighting your taste buds. Try it today, and enjoy a taste of the South right in your home!
📖 Recipe:
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New Orleans Style Bread Pudding
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 16-20 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and, of course, its mouthwatering cuisine. Among the many treasures this city has to offer, New Orleans Style Bread Pudding stands out as a beloved dessert that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Southern comfort food. This rich and decadent dish, featuring French bread and a delightful blend of spices, is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a true Southern treat.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
10 ounces stale French bread, crumbled (or 6–8 cups of any bread; reduce milk to 3 cups if using fresh bread)
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 eggs
2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup raisins
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
4 cups milk
For Joe’s Whiskey Sauce:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup Bourbon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine all the bread pudding ingredients: crumbled bread, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, raisins, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, cinnamon, nutmeg, and milk. The mixture should be very moist but not overly soupy.
- Pour the mixture into the buttered baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
- While the bread pudding bakes, prepare Joe’s Whiskey Sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cream the butter and powdered sugar using a hand-held mixer until the butter is fully absorbed. Remove the pan from heat and whisk in the egg yolks. Gradually stir in the bourbon, mixing constantly until the sauce thickens as it cools.
- Serve the bread pudding warm, topped with the whiskey sauce.
Notes
For best results, use stale bread for a firmer texture.
You can substitute bourbon in the sauce with apple cider or vanilla extract if desired.
Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or different nuts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Dessert
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16-20 servings
- Calories: 410 kcal
