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### **Step-by-Step Directions**
#### **1. Prepare the Bread**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a baking dish with butter.
– Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish. If using raisins or cranberries, sprinkle them over the bread.
#### **2. Make the Custard**
– In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
#### **3. Combine**
– Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are well-soaked. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
#### **4. Bake**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
#### **5. Serve**
– Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, topped with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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### **Why Bread Pudding Deserves a Comeback**
1. **Sustainability**: It’s an excellent way to reduce food waste by giving new life to stale bread.
2. **Versatility**: Adapt the recipe with your favorite fruits, spices, or even chocolate chips.
3. **Budget-Friendly**: Made with pantry staples, it’s a dessert that’s as economical as it is delicious.
4. **Timeless Comfort**: The warm, custard-soaked bread evokes a sense of home and tradition.
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### **Modern Twists on a Classic**
While traditional bread pudding holds its own charm, you can modernize it to suit today’s tastes:
– Add **dark chocolate chunks** and orange zest for a sophisticated twist.
– Use **almond milk** and coconut sugar for a dairy-free, refined sugar-free version.
– Layer with **apple slices** and drizzle with maple syrup for an autumn-inspired treat.
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Bread pudding is more than a dessert—it’s a reminder of the beauty in simplicity. As you prepare this classic dish, you’re not just baking; you’re reconnecting with a culinary tradition that has stood the test of time. So, bring out the bread, whisk those eggs, and rediscover the magic of this forgotten gem in your kitchen.
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