This bread pudding, enveloped in a luscious buttery bourbon sauce, is a favorite among dessert aficionados and is sure to become a cherished staple at your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or seeking a comforting treat, this recipe promises to deliver unforgettable flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients For Decadent Bread Pudding with Rich Bourbon Sauce
BREAD PUDDING
- 1 loaf (14 ounces / 400 grams) day-old French bread
- 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) ground nutmeg
- 1 dash (a pinch) salt
- 3 1/4 cups (770 ml) milk
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (75 grams) raisins
- 1/4 cup (30 grams) pecans, optional
BUTTERY BOURBON SAUCE
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (85 grams) butter, melted
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons (22 ml) bourbon (or more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) baking soda
- 1 tablespoon (20 ml) light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
How To Make Decadent Bread Pudding with Rich Bourbon Sauce
- Prepare the Oven and Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the French bread into approximately 1/2-inch (1.5 cm) cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a dash of salt to the bread cubes. Mix thoroughly to ensure the bread is evenly coated with the spices and sugar.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, lightly beaten eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the milk and egg mixture over the bread cubes. Gently stir to ensure all bread pieces are soaked and evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Add-Ins: Fold in the raisins and, if desired, the chopped pecans to add texture and depth of flavor to the pudding.
- Layer the Pudding: Pour half of the bread mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the raisins and pecans (if using) over the first layer.
- Add Remaining Mixture: Pour the remaining bread mixture on top of the first layer, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
- Bake the Pudding: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the pudding is set.
- Prepare the Bourbon Sauce: While the pudding bakes, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, buttermilk, bourbon, baking soda, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle boil, allowing it to cook for 1 minute before removing it from the heat.
- Serve the Dessert: Once the bread pudding is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the warm buttery bourbon sauce generously over each serving and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.
This decadent bread pudding with rich bourbon sauce is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. The combination of tender bread, sweet raisins, crunchy pecans, and the velvety bourbon-infused sauce creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is both comforting and luxurious. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a special treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your culinary repertoire. Embrace the delightful indulgence and watch as this dessert becomes a highlight of your dining moments.
