Delia Smith’s Bread Pudding Recipe

Delia Smith’s bread pudding is a classic British dessert that is both hearty and comforting. Known for her ability to bring traditional recipes to life with a touch of elegance and simplicity, Delia Smith’s bread pudding is a prime example of her skill in turning humble ingredients into something delicious.

This dessert is a perfect way to use up stale bread, transforming it into a moist, rich, and flavorful treat. The pudding has a delightful texture, thanks to the soaking of bread in a milk and egg mixture, which is then baked to perfection.

Often flavored with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and sometimes dotted with dried fruits such as raisins, currants, or sultanas, Delia’s bread pudding is a warm and comforting dish that can be enjoyed at any time of year. It can be served warm or at room temperature, often with a drizzle of cream or a dusting of sugar.

Delia Smith’s Bread Pudding Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients needed for Delia Smith’s bread pudding are simple, making it an affordable dessert that doesn’t require expensive or exotic items. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Stale White Bread: About 450g (roughly 12 slices) of stale bread is perfect for this recipe. You can use any type of bread, but white bread or a basic sandwich bread works best as it absorbs the custard mixture well.
2. Milk: Around 600ml of full-fat milk is needed. The richness of the milk adds to the creaminess of the pudding.
3. Eggs: You’ll need 3 large eggs, which provide the structure and richness that makes this bread pudding so satisfying.
4. Butter: About 25g of butter, melted. This adds a slight richness and flavor to the pudding mixture.
5. Sugar: Around 100g of caster sugar is typical. You can adjust the sweetness based on your preference.
6. Dried Fruit: Traditionally, Delia’s recipe uses a mixture of sultanas, raisins, and currants. About 200g total is a good amount for a fruity touch, though you can mix and match according to your taste.
7. Spices: A pinch of ground cinnamon and a pinch of ground nutmeg help to enhance the flavor of the bread pudding and give it a warm, comforting aroma.
8. Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a subtle depth of flavor, making the pudding even more aromatic.
9. Orange Zest: For a bit of brightness, adding a teaspoon of finely grated orange zest complements the richness of the pudding and the sweetness of the dried fruits.

Equipment Needed

To make Delia Smith’s bread pudding, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

1. A Baking Dish: A 2-liter (or approximately 8 x 8-inch) baking dish works best for this recipe. It should be shallow enough to ensure even cooking and a lovely golden top.
2. A Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a bowl large enough to mix together the milk, eggs, sugar, spices, and dried fruits.
3. A Whisk or Fork: For beating the eggs and mixing the custard ingredients together.
4. A Knife: To cut the bread into cubes.
5. A Spoon: To gently stir the bread cubes into the custard mixture and ensure they soak thoroughly.
6. A Grater: For grating the orange zest, if using.
7. A Pastry Brush (optional): If you want to lightly grease your baking dish before adding the bread mixture, you can use a pastry brush.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Bread Pudding

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to making this delicious dessert:

1. Prepare the Bread: Start by cutting the stale bread into small cubes or tearing it into pieces. Place the bread in a large mixing bowl and set it aside.
2. Make the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, spices (cinnamon and nutmeg), vanilla extract, and orange zest. Whisk the mixture until it’s well combined.
3. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are all soaked. Use a spoon or your hands to gently press down on the bread, making sure all of it absorbs the liquid. Let the bread soak for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even soaking.
4. Add the Dried Fruit: Stir in the dried fruit (sultanas, raisins, and currants). You can also add any additional fruit or even chopped nuts at this stage if you like.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 2-liter baking dish with a small amount of butter or cooking spray. Once greased, pour the bread mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake the Pudding: Preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F, or Gas Mark 3). Bake the bread pudding for around 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding has set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean when the pudding is done.
7. Serve: Allow the pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving. It can be served warm with a drizzle of cream, custard, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s also delicious when served at room temperature.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

To perfect Delia Smith’s bread pudding, here are some helpful tips:

1. Bread Choice: Use day-old, slightly stale bread for the best results. Fresh bread can become too soggy when soaked, whereas stale bread absorbs the custard mixture without falling apart.
2. Soak the Bread Properly: Don’t rush the soaking process. The bread should soak up the custard mixture, and the longer it soaks, the more flavorful the pudding will be. However, don’t let it soak for too long, or the bread will become overly mushy.
3. Use Full-Fat Milk: Full-fat milk gives the pudding a rich, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you could use semi-skimmed milk, but it won’t have the same indulgent quality.
4. Spices: Experiment with different spices to create your own version. For example, adding a little ground ginger or mixed spice can add an interesting twist.
5. Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pudding while it’s baking. The top should be golden brown, and the pudding should feel firm to the touch when done. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
6. Leftovers: Leftover bread pudding is fantastic the next day. It can be reheated in the microwave or in the oven, and often the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.

Delia Smith’s bread pudding is a timeless classic that brings comfort and warmth with every bite. This dessert is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary.

Whether you make it with traditional dried fruits or experiment with your favorite additions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its sweet, spiced custard and soft, rich bread texture, it’s the kind of dessert that’s equally perfect for a cozy afternoon or a special occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this beloved British treat!.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Bread Pudding Recipe

Delia Smith’s classic bread pudding recipe is a beloved dessert, cherished for its simplicity and heartwarming flavors. However, if you’re looking to add a bit of personal flair to this comforting dish, there are plenty of twists you can experiment with. Here are a few ideas to elevate your bread pudding and give it a unique spin:

1. Spiced Orange and Walnut Bread Pudding: For a citrusy twist, incorporate freshly grated orange zest into the pudding mixture. The bright, zesty flavor pairs wonderfully with the richness of the pudding. Adding chopped walnuts offers a delightful crunch and complements the citrus notes, creating a lovely contrast in texture.
2. Chocolate and Cherry Bread Pudding: For chocolate lovers, try adding cocoa powder or chunks of dark chocolate into the custard mixture. Pair this with dried cherries or even fresh ones if available. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries makes for a decadent dessert that’s still grounded in the comforting qualities of bread pudding.
3. Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Slice some tart apples thinly and layer them into your bread pudding before baking. Sprinkle cinnamon and brown sugar to create a warm, spiced aroma that will fill your kitchen. The apples soften beautifully, absorbing the flavors of the custard, while the cinnamon enhances the cozy feeling of this traditional dish.
4. Caramelized Banana and Pecan Bread Pudding: Adding caramelized bananas into your bread pudding will introduce a beautiful sweetness, and pairing them with toasted pecans adds a nutty richness. The natural sweetness of the bananas, combined with the buttered, crispy edges of the bread pudding, makes for a mouthwatering combination.
5. Lemon and Blueberry Bread Pudding: For a fresh, fruity twist, consider folding fresh blueberries and a touch of lemon juice into your bread pudding. The tanginess of the lemon perfectly complements the sweetness of the berries, giving your dessert a light, bright flavor profile that is perfect for spring or summer.
6. Boozy Bread Pudding: Elevate the traditional bread pudding by soaking the bread in a splash of your favorite liquor. Rum or bourbon works particularly well, infusing the pudding with a warm, deep flavor. A little splash of vanilla extract or almond extract can also enhance the richness of the custard, making it a dessert that’s perfect for festive occasions.

These variations on Delia Smith’s bread pudding recipe allow for creativity while maintaining the essence of the classic dish. You can tailor the flavors to match the seasons, your personal preferences, or even the special occasion you’re celebrating.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Once you’ve prepared a delicious batch of bread pudding, you may have some leftovers that need to be stored. Properly storing bread pudding ensures that it remains fresh and delicious for a longer period. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Cooling: After baking, allow the bread pudding to cool down to room temperature. This step is crucial because storing it while still hot can cause condensation to build up in the container, making it soggy.
2. Refrigerating: Once cooled, cover the bread pudding with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Bread pudding keeps relatively well in the fridge, but it’s best to consume it within a few days for optimal flavor and texture.
3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you’d like to store your bread pudding for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Slice the pudding into individual portions for easier reheating. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Bread pudding can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. Reheating: To reheat bread pudding, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread pudding in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few minutes, though oven reheating helps maintain the best texture.

Storing bread pudding properly ensures that it remains just as tasty and comforting the second time around. Whether you’re preparing it ahead of time or simply savoring leftovers, following these steps will help maintain the pudding’s delightful flavor and texture.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Bread Pudding?

Delia Smith’s bread pudding is a rich and satisfying dessert on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the experience. Here are some delicious ideas for what to eat with your bread pudding:

1. Custard or Cream: A traditional pairing for bread pudding is a generous pour of creamy custard. You can make a simple homemade custard or opt for a store-bought version. For an extra indulgent twist, you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
2. Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh berries, like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries, contrasts beautifully with the rich and sweet flavor of the bread pudding. The acidity of the berries adds a refreshing balance to the dessert, making it feel light and fruity.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your bread pudding adds an extra layer of decadence. The buttery, sweet sauce soaks into the pudding, enhancing its richness and creating a velvety texture that’s hard to resist.
4. Spiced Nuts: Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts, such as chopped pecans or almonds, can introduce a delightful crunch to each bite. The nuts also provide an earthy, slightly bitter flavor that helps to balance out the sweetness of the bread pudding.
5. Ice Cream Flavors: If you want to go for a contrast in temperature and texture, serving bread pudding with ice cream is an excellent option. Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, but you could also opt for caramel, cinnamon, or even a rich chocolate flavor to complement the dessert.
6. Hot Chocolate or Tea: For a cozy experience, consider pairing your bread pudding with a hot drink. A cup of spiced hot chocolate or a rich, aromatic tea like Earl Grey or chai can provide a warm, comforting complement to the pudding’s texture and flavors.

These side dishes and accompaniments can make your bread pudding experience even more delightful and satisfying, offering different textures, temperatures, and flavors to balance out the dessert.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s bread pudding recipe is a timeless classic that can easily be customized to suit your taste. Whether you decide to add in fresh fruit, rich chocolate, or spices, there are endless ways to make this dessert your own.

With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy it for days to come, and pairing it with sides like creamy custard, fresh berries, or hot chocolate can elevate the experience. Whether you serve it as a cozy treat for yourself or a crowd-pleasing dessert for guests, bread pudding will always be a comforting and versatile option.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Delia Smith’s Bread Pudding Recipe?

Delia Smith’s bread pudding recipe requires a few simple and staple ingredients: stale white bread, butter, sugar, eggs, milk, dried fruits like raisins or sultanas, and a pinch of ground cinnamon or mixed spice. Optional additions include orange zest, and sometimes a splash of vanilla extract or brandy to enhance the flavor.

How Do I Make Delia Smith’s Bread Pudding Moist And Flavorful?

To ensure your bread pudding is moist and flavorful, it’s important to soak the bread thoroughly in a mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and butter. The bread should absorb the liquid before baking, and using slightly stale bread helps it soak up the custard-like mixture more effectively. Additionally, adding a generous amount of dried fruit, cinnamon, and perhaps a bit of citrus zest helps to infuse flavor into the pudding.

Can I Substitute The Dried Fruit In Delia Smith’s Bread Pudding Recipe?

Yes, you can customize the dried fruit in Delia Smith’s bread pudding recipe to your liking. While raisins or sultanas are traditional, you can substitute with other dried fruits like currants, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots. You could also experiment with fresh fruits, but be mindful that they may release more moisture into the pudding, potentially altering its texture.