How to Make Bread and Butter Pudding: A Classic British Dessert

Bread and butter pudding is one of Britain’s most beloved traditional desserts, offering comfort, nostalgia, and a delightful way to use up stale bread. This timeless treat has graced British dining tables for generations, known for its rich custard, golden-baked top, and indulgent layers of buttery bread. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday roast or craving a homely dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

--- published by foodie Parmod.

🧈 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

8 slices of slightly stale white bread (or brioche for a richer result)

50g unsalted butter (softened)

50g sultanas or raisins

2 tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

350ml whole milk

50ml double cream

2 large eggs

25g granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)

1 tsp vanilla extract

---

🍞 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Butter each slice of bread on one side. If you prefer a more indulgent pudding, feel free to butter both sides. Remove the crusts if you like a softer texture, though some people enjoy the contrast they bring.

Cut the bread into triangles or quarters, depending on your preferred presentation.

Step 2: Layer the Dish

Grease an ovenproof dish with a little butter. Arrange a layer of bread, buttered side up, across the base of the dish. Sprinkle some of the sultanas and a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (if using) over the top.

Continue layering the bread and sultanas until everything is used up, finishing with a layer of bread.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and cream until smooth and well combined.

Carefully pour the custard over the bread layers, making sure it soaks through all the slices. Let the pudding sit for 15–20 minutes to allow the custard to absorb fully.

Step 4: Bake the Pudding

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas Mark 4.

Sprinkle a little extra sugar over the top of the pudding for a golden, slightly crisp crust.

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard has set. The pudding should puff up slightly and feel firm to the touch.

---

🍨 Serving Suggestions

Bread and butter pudding is best served warm. Pair it with:

A dollop of clotted cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream

A drizzle of custard or cream

For a modern twist, try adding orange zest, dark chocolate chips, or swapping raisins for dried cranberries or apricots.

---

📝 Tips for the Best Bread and Butter Pudding

Use slightly stale bread – It absorbs the custard better and prevents sogginess.

Brioche or panettone – For an extra indulgent pudding, try using richer bread varieties.

Let it rest – Allowing the custard to soak into the bread before baking ensures a silky texture.

Don't overbake – Remove from the oven when the custard is just set to keep the pudding moist.

---

🔍 Why Bread and Butter Pudding Is So Loved

This pudding is the ultimate example of classic British comfort food. It's easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for reusing ingredients. With just a few simple additions, it can be transformed into a show-stopping dessert that impresses guests and pleases all ages.

Whether you're reminiscing about childhood or discovering it for the first time, bread and butter pudding is a must-try for any lover of traditional British cooking.

---

📈 

To help this blog post rank on Google, here are some relevant SEO keywords included:

How to make bread and butter pudding

Traditional British dessert

Easy bread pudding recipe

British comfort food

Homemade pudding with custard

What to do with stale bread

---

Conclusion

Now you know how to make bread and butter pudding the traditional British way! With just a few pantry staples, you can create a warm, comforting dessert that’s ideal for any occasion. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy every bite of this cosy classic.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

Craving more British favourites? Check out our recipes for Shepherd’s Pie, Spotted Dick, and Treacle Tart for more comforting classics from British cuisine.