The Step-by-Step Method: Creating a Classic
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 45-55 mins | Serves: 8
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 2-quart baking dish (an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square dish works perfectly).
Step 2: The Bread Base
Place the cubed bread (and raisins, if using) in the prepared baking dish. Gently toss them together.
Step 3: Create the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until they are light and foamy. This incorporates air for a lighter pudding.
Add the sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to create a smooth, homogenous custard.
Step 4: The Soak
Slowly and evenly pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish.
Press down gently on the bread with a spatula to ensure all the pieces are submerged and soaking up the custard. Let this sit for 15-20 minutes. This is a crucial step for achieving that signature soft, uniform texture.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, the edges are bubbling, and the center is set (a knife inserted near the center should come out clean).
If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Make the Vanilla Sauce
While the pudding is baking, make the sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Whisk in the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking constantly until the sugars are completely dissolved.
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
