Bread Pudding

📜 Collection: UK2 | ✍️ Attribution: Lois Shelton | 📂 Category: Desserts A traditional, large-batch bread pudding featuring a rich custard made from scalded milk and eggs, baked until golden brown and set. This classic recipe is perfect for serving a crowd with its simple, comforting flavors.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
20 mins1 hourNone12–16 Servings

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Large baking pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wire whisk
  • Saucepan

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
2/3 loafBreadcrusts removed
8 to 10Eggslarge
1/2 gallon + 1-2 cupsMilkdivided
2 CupsSugargranulated
3 tspVanillaextract
1/4 tspSaltfine
To tasteButterfor dotting
To tasteNutmegground, for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking pan.
  2. Remove crusts from the 2/3 loaf bread. Arrange slices to cover the bottom of the pan, then cut the remaining bread into small pieces and distribute over the base.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard

  1. In a large bowl, beat the 8 to 10 eggs well, then whisk in the 2 cups sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  2. In a saucepan, heat the 1/2 gallon milk until scalded (bubbles form around the edges), ensuring it does not boil.
  3. Slowly pour the hot milk in a thin stream into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs, then stir in the 3 teaspoons vanilla.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb; add the extra 1-2 cups milk if the bread is not fully saturated.
  2. Dot the top with small pieces of butter and sprinkle generously with ground nutmeg.
  3. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: The custard can be prepared and poured over the bread a few hours in advance to allow for better absorption before baking.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card