Bread and Butter Pudding has roots in British kitchens, where leftover bread was transformed into a warm baked dish using milk and eggs. Over time, it became a familiar Easter dessert served during family meals, especially when simple pantry ingredients were all that was needed to create something comforting and satisfying.
This version carries a gentle twist with cardamom and nutmeg, bringing a subtle Indian warmth to the custard. The contrast between the soft, soaked bread and the lightly crisp top layer makes this Easter dessert enjoyable both warm and slightly cooled. Raisins add small bursts of sweetness in every spoonful.
It works well for gatherings or quiet weekend baking, offering a balanced texture without needing special equipment or advanced baking skills.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
6White bread slices
for applyingButter
1 1/2 cupsMilk
1/4 cupCastor sugar
2Eggs
1 teaspoonVanilla essence
a pinchNutmeg powder
1/4 teaspoonGreen cardamom powder
2 tablespoonsRaisins
Follow
Directions
Description - Step 1
Prep bread
Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice. Cut them into smaller squares to help them layer better. Keep the buttered side facing up, as it will remain on top while baking.
Description - Step 2
Warm milk mix
Heat milk in a pan on a low flame and add castor sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely without letting the milk boil rapidly. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before adding eggs.
Description - Step 3
Arrange layers
Place the bread pieces in a baking dish, slightly overlapping each other. Keep the buttered side facing up so it forms a golden surface once baked. Ensure the dish is evenly filled without gaps.
Description - Step 4
Prepare custard
Crack eggs into the cooled milk mixture and whisk until smooth. Add vanilla essence, nutmeg powder, and cardamom powder. Mix well and strain this liquid over the arranged bread for a uniform texture.
Description - Step 5
Add raisins
Sprinkle raisins evenly across the soaked bread. They will soften during baking and add small sweet pockets throughout the pudding without overpowering the custard flavour.
Description - Step 6
Bake pudding
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C. Bake until the top turns golden and the custard sets gently. The centre should feel soft but not liquid when checked with a spoon.
Description - Step 7
Rest and serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. This resting time helps the layers settle and makes slicing easier while keeping the inside soft and moist.
Yes, you can replace eggs with custard powder mixed in milk. The texture will be slightly different but still soft and set, making it suitable for egg-free preferences.
This Easter dessert can be served both ways. Warm serving gives a softer texture, while chilled pudding firms up slightly and offers a denser bite with deeper flavour.
It usually happens when there is less custard or overbaking. Ensure the bread is fully soaked and remove the dish once the centre is just set, not completely dry.
Yes, brown bread works well and adds a slightly nutty taste. It also gives a firmer structure compared to white bread, making the pudding slightly denser.
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving or enjoy it cold, depending on your texture preference.