Description
Paula Deen’s legendary bread pudding brings Southern comfort to your dessert table with rich, custardy layers of indulgence. Warm vanilla sauce and tender bread create a classic Southern treat that melts hearts and satisfies sweet cravings in one delightful spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups cubed Italian bread
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Sugars and Sweeteners:
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup brandy
Fats and Flavor Enhancers:
- ½ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup softened butter
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for the sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by warming the oven to 175°C / 350°F and generously coating a 33 x 23 x 5 cm (13 x 9 x 2-inch) baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
- Create the bread foundation by gently combining granulated sugar, lightly beaten eggs, milk, and vanilla extract in a spacious mixing bowl. Carefully fold in cubed bread pieces, allowing them to soak and absorb the liquid mixture for approximately 10 minutes.
- Craft the nutty topping by blending brown sugar, softened butter, and chopped pecans until the mixture reaches a crumbly, textured consistency.
- Transfer the saturated bread mixture into the prepared baking pan, ensuring even distribution. Sprinkle the pecan-brown sugar crumble across the surface, creating a delectable layer of sweetness.
- Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, monitoring until the pudding sets and develops a golden, slightly crisp exterior.
- While the pudding bakes, prepare the decadent sauce by combining remaining granulated sugar, melted butter, an additional beaten egg, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Once the sauce reaches a smooth consistency, incorporate brandy and continue stirring to blend the flavors thoroughly.
- Remove the bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Drizzle the warm, rich sauce generously over the pudding just before serving.
- Serve the dessert either warm or chilled, offering a luxurious and comforting sweet treat that can be enjoyed in various temperatures.
Notes
- Warm Serving Enhances Flavor: Bread pudding reaches its peak deliciousness when served straight from the oven, delivering a comforting warmth that melts hearts and tantalizes taste buds.
- Slow Sauce Preparation Matters: Gentle heat and constant stirring transform sugar into a silky-smooth sauce, preventing any unwanted graininess that could disrupt the pudding’s luxurious texture.
- Topping Creates Delightful Contrast: Generously sprinkle brown sugar and pecans across the surface, creating a crispy, caramelized layer that beautifully complements the pudding’s soft, custardy interior.
- Soaking Bread Develops Rich Flavor: Letting bread rest in the egg mixture allows it to drink up every delicious drop, ensuring a creamy, indulgent consistency that melts in your mouth.
- Stale Bread Works Best: Choose day-old bread or lightly toast fresh bread to prevent sogginess, guaranteeing a perfect, slightly crisp texture that holds up beautifully during baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 724 kcal
- Sugar: 83g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 85g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 170mg