Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

If you’re searching for a delightful dessert that’s both heartwarming and soul-satisfying, look no further than Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding. This dish perfectly showcases a harmonious blend of custardy sweetness wrapped in a golden, crispy layer. Imagine sinking your fork into a rich, creamy delight punctuated by plump raisins or chopped apples, all drizzled with a velvety sauce that adds an extra dimension of flavor.

It’s a favorite amongst families for its simplicity and comforting essence. Did you know that bread pudding has roots in thriftiness? Originating as a way to prevent leftover bread from going to waste, it’s a delicious representation of resourcefulness. Much like classic French Toast, which often finds its way onto brunch tables, this bread pudding stands out for its unique texture and flavor profile. Make this for your next family gathering and watch everyone fight for the last bite!

What is Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding?

Have you ever wondered why bread pudding is such a beloved dessert? The name may not sound glamorous, but it truly is a sweet reminder that sometimes, the simplest things in life are the most satisfying. Picture this: crusty bread transformed into a creamy, dreamy concoction. They say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I can assure you, anyone who tries this Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding will feel fondly toward you! So why not whip up a batch and savor each delightful, creamy bite?

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

There are many reasons to fall head over heels for this Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding. First, it’s a standout dessert that captures the essence of comfort food—think warm, creamy goodness that melts in your mouth. And, if you’re looking to save some dollars, making this dish at home is a fantastic and budget-friendly option compared to gourmet desserts—just one of the reasons it has entrenched itself in many American families. Lastly, you can personalize your bread pudding with a variety of toppings such as nuts, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of honey to enhance the flavor. It’s like a blank canvas that can be tailored to your tastes. Ready to make some magic in the kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!

How to Make Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Quick Overview

This recipe for Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is incredibly easy and satisfying to make. With its delightful combination of textures—crispy on the outside and soft and custardy on the inside—it’s sure to impress anyone. You can whip up this luscious dessert in just about 20 minutes, and then it will bake for another 30 minutes while you inhale the delicious aromas wafting through your home.

Key Ingredients for Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

• 6 cups of stale bread, cubed (French or challah works best)
• 2 cups of milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
• 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg (optional)
• 1 cup of raisins or chopped apples (your choice)
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure that your bread pudding cooks evenly.
2. Prepare Your Bread: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed stale bread and any optional ingredients like raisins or chopped apples. You want to make sure the bread is stale so it absorbs the custard mixture well.
3. Mix the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, applesauce, honey or maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
4. Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and make sure they are evenly soaked. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to fully absorb.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a large baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to avoid any clumps.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving. Drizzle with honey or a dollop of yogurt for a delightful touch!

Top Tips for Perfecting Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

• Stale Bread is Key: The older bread you use, the better it will absorb the custard. Fresh bread will result in a soggy pudding.
• Substitutions: Feel free to swap out the honey for agave syrup or stevia for a lower-calorie option. For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or almonds into the mix.
• Timing: If you’re worried about overcooking, check the pudding 5-10 minutes before the end of the suggested baking time.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To keep your Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding fresh, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’d like to store it longer, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick dessert fix, but the oven method preserves the texture best!

Now that you have all the information you need, are you ready to make this scrumptious Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding? Gather your ingredients and start cooking, your taste buds will thank you!

Healthy Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

A delightful dessert featuring a custardy sweetness wrapped in a crispy layer, perfect for family gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 6 cups stale bread, cubed (French or challah works best) Use stale bread for better absorption.
• 2 cups milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option) Can be substituted with almond milk.
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce Adds moisture and sweetness.
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup For sweetness, honey can be substituted.
• 3 large eggs Provides structure and richness.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds warmth and spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional) For added flavor, omit if desired.
• 1 cup raisins or chopped apples Your choice of addition.
• 1 pinch salt Balances sweetness.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed stale bread with any optional ingredients like raisins or chopped apples.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, applesauce, honey or maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb.
5. Grease a large baking dish and transfer the soaked bread mixture into the dish.
6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
7. Allow the bread pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or microwave individual slices.