Che Nom's Delicious Caramel Bread Pudding Recipe

by Alex Braham 49 views

Hey guys! Who doesn't love a good bread pudding? And when it's a Caramel Bread Pudding a la Che Nom, you know it’s gonna be amazing. This recipe is a total crowd-pleaser, super comforting, and relatively easy to whip up. Let’s dive into making this delicious dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me; you'll want to bookmark this one!

What Makes Che Nom's Caramel Bread Pudding Special?

So, what sets Che Nom’s Caramel Bread Pudding apart from the rest? Well, it’s all about the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The caramel sauce isn't just an afterthought; it's rich, buttery, and deeply infused into every nook and cranny of the bread. The bread itself is soft, custardy, and perfectly soaked, creating this melt-in-your-mouth sensation that is just heavenly. Che Nom's recipe focuses on using simple ingredients but combining them in a way that elevates the entire dish. It’s the kind of dessert that feels both familiar and utterly indulgent, making it perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in. The secret also lies in the meticulous attention to detail – from the precise cooking time to ensuring the caramel is just the right consistency. It's a labor of love, but every bite is worth it. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes? Irresistible! The best part? This recipe is foolproof if you follow the steps carefully, making you look like a star baker even if you're just starting out. It’s a definite win-win!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, let's gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make Che Nom’s Caramel Bread Pudding. Make sure you have everything measured out and ready to go – it makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable!

  • For the Caramel:
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/4 cup water
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • For the Bread Pudding:
    • 6-8 slices of bread (day-old is best!)
    • 2 cups milk
    • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • Pinch of salt
    • Optional: Raisins or chocolate chips for extra flavor

Make sure your bread is slightly stale; this helps it absorb the custard better without becoming too mushy. Day-old bread works wonders! For the dairy, using full-fat milk and heavy cream will give you that extra richness that makes this pudding so decadent. And don’t skimp on the vanilla extract – it adds a beautiful aroma and enhances all the other flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a handful of raisins or chocolate chips. These additions can take your bread pudding to a whole new level of deliciousness. Trust me; it’s the little things that make a big difference!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get to the fun part – making the Caramel Bread Pudding! Follow these steps carefully, and you'll be enjoying a warm, gooey slice of heaven in no time.

  1. Prepare the Caramel:
    • In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, stop stirring and let it cook until it turns into a deep amber color. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn't burn!
    • Remove from heat and quickly stir in the butter until melted and smooth. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Be careful, as it may bubble up. Continue stirring until the caramel is smooth and creamy.
    • Pour the caramel into the bottom of your baking dish (usually an 8x8 inch square pan or a similar-sized round dish). Make sure to coat the bottom evenly.
  2. Prepare the Bread:
    • Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. Place the bread cubes in a large bowl.
  3. Make the Custard:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This is your custard base, so make sure everything is nicely mixed.
  4. Combine and Soak:
    • Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is evenly soaked. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid. Let it sit for about 20-30 minutes to allow the bread to fully soak up the custard. This soaking time is crucial for that perfect texture!
    • If you’re adding raisins or chocolate chips, sprinkle them over the bread mixture now.
  5. Bake:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Place the baking dish into a larger baking pan. Pour hot water into the larger pan, creating a water bath that comes about halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This helps the bread pudding cook evenly and prevents it from drying out.
    • Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
  6. Cool and Serve:
    • Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the pudding to set a bit more.
    • To serve, you can either scoop it directly from the baking dish or invert it onto a serving plate so the caramel is on top. Be careful when inverting, as the caramel will be hot and liquid!
    • Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Bread Pudding

To ensure your Caramel Bread Pudding turns out amazing every time, here are some tips and tricks that I’ve learned along the way:

  • Use Stale Bread: Fresh bread will get too mushy. Day-old bread or even slightly stale bread is perfect because it absorbs the custard without falling apart.
  • Don't Skip the Water Bath: The water bath is crucial for even cooking and prevents the bread pudding from drying out. It creates a gentle, moist environment that helps the custard set perfectly.
  • Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite flavors! Nuts, dried fruits, chocolate chips, or even a splash of bourbon can take your bread pudding to the next level.
  • Let It Soak: Give the bread ample time to soak up the custard. This ensures every bite is moist and flavorful. 20-30 minutes is usually sufficient, but you can even soak it for longer if you have the time.
  • Check for Doneness: Use a knife to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, your bread pudding is ready. If it’s still too wet, continue baking for a few more minutes.
  • Cool Slightly Before Serving: Letting the bread pudding cool slightly before serving allows it to set a bit more, making it easier to slice and serve. Plus, it prevents the caramel from being too runny.

Variations to Try

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few variations you can try to make this Caramel Bread Pudding your own:

  • Chocolate Caramel Bread Pudding: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the bread mixture for a decadent twist.
  • Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Add diced apples and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy, autumnal flavor.
  • Nutty Caramel Bread Pudding: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the bread mixture for added crunch and flavor.
  • Bourbon Caramel Bread Pudding: Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the custard mixture for a boozy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Caramel Bread Pudding is fantastic on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to make it even more special:

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of warm bread pudding is a classic combination that never fails.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch.
  • Caramel Sauce: Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top for an extra dose of sweetness.
  • Fresh Berries: Add fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store them:

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion

So there you have it – Che Nom's amazing Caramel Bread Pudding recipe! It’s rich, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a comforting treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven. Happy baking, guys! And don't forget to share your creations with me – I can't wait to see them! Enjoy!