Irish Soda Bread Pudding
A delightful dessert made from day-old Irish soda bread, soaked in a sweet custard and baked until golden. Often enhanced with dried fruits and spices, it's a perfect way to use up leftover bread.
🧂 Ingredients
- 5 cups Irish soda bread(cubed (about 1 loaf, day-old is best))
- 1.25 cups Whole milk(or half-and-half/heavy cream)
- 0.5 cup Brown sugar(packed)
- 2 large Eggs
- 0.5 tsp Vanilla extract
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 cup Apple(peeled and chopped (optional))
- 0.5 cup Pecans(chopped (optional))
- 1 tbsp Butter(cubed, for topping (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut Irish soda bread into bite-sized pieces. If using fresh bread, you can toast the cubes lightly in the oven for 5-10 minutes to dry them out.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon to form a custard.
- 3
Add the cubed Irish soda bread to the custard mixture. Stir well to coat all the bread pieces. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
- 4
If using, stir in the chopped apple and pecans.
- 5
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish (an 8x8 inch or similar size works well). Scatter the cubed butter over the top, if using.
- 6
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top.
💡 Tip: A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. - 7
Let cool slightly before serving warm. It can also be served at room temperature or cold.
💡 Tip: Serve with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using day-old soda bread is crucial for the best texture, as it absorbs the custard better without becoming too mushy.
- ✓Don't overmix the batter once the bread is added; gentle folding is best.
- ✓A splash of Irish whiskey or a tablespoon of Baileys can be added to the custard for an adult twist.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add raisins or currants along with the apples and pecans.
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of whole milk.
- Serve with a whiskey caramel sauce or a simple vanilla custard.