Brown Butter Toffee Bread Pudding

Brown Butter Toffee Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that merges the warm, comforting flavors of bread pudding with the rich, nutty taste of brown butter and the sweet crunch of toffee bits. This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering. As it bakes, the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around for a taste of this indulgent treat.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 400
• Protein: 6 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Fat: 22 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Sugar: 22 grams
• Sodium: 220 mg

Why Make This Brown Butter Toffee Bread Pudding

This recipe is a twist on the classic bread pudding, offering a rich depth of flavor with its brown butter base and sweet toffee bits. The combination of textures ensures every bite is a delightful experience—crispy on top and creamy underneath. It makes for a fantastic dessert following a hearty meal, and it’s sure to impress your guests. Plus, it’s versatile enough for variations—so you can make it your own!

How to Make Brown Butter Toffee Bread Pudding

Creating this Brown Butter Toffee Bread Pudding is a straightforward and enjoyable process, allowing you to dive into a comforting dessert quickly. Below, you’ll find all the steps outlined for your convenience.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups brioche bread, cubed
• 1 cup toffee bits
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, browned
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.

• Step 2: Browning the Butter

  In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Cook it until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

• Step 3: Mixing the Custard

  In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Once the mixture is smooth, gradually pour in the browned butter, whisking continuously.

• Step 4: Assembling the Pudding

  In the greased baking dish, layer the cubed brioche bread evenly. Sprinkle the toffee bits generously on top of the bread. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure the bread soaks up the custard. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb.

• Step 5: Baking

  Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

• Step 6: Serving

  Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, either plain or with a drizzle of cream or scoop of ice cream on top.

How to Serve Brown Butter Toffee Bread Pudding

For an extra touch, dust the bread pudding with powdered sugar or drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top just before serving. It pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream, adding a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the pudding.

How to Store Brown Butter Toffee Bread Pudding

To store leftover bread pudding, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds or warm in an oven set to a low temperature.

Expert Tips for Perfect Brown Butter Toffee Bread Pudding

1. Use Stale Brioche: Slightly stale or day-old brioche works best as it absorbs the custard well without disintegrating.
2. Let It Sit: Allowing the bread pudding to rest after pouring in the custard helps the brioche soak up more flavor.
3. Add Spices: Try adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
4. Garnish Wisely: Fresh berries or crushed toffee bits on top after serving can add both color and texture.
5. Monitor Baking Time: All ovens are different; keep an eye on your bread pudding and take it out when the top is golden and the center is set.

Delicious Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Twist: Mix in some chocolate chips for a sweeter version that’s sure to satisfy chocolate cravings.
• Fruit-Filled: Fold in chopped apples or pears for a fruity take on this classic.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use other types of bread?
  Yes, while brioche is recommended for its richness, you can also use challah, French bread, or even croissants for a unique flavor.

• Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
  Absolutely! You can freeze the baked bread pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Can I make this in advance?
  Yes! You can mix everything and refrigerate up to overnight before baking. Allow it to sit at room temperature before putting it in the oven.

• What can I substitute for heavy cream?
  If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream to reduce the fat content.

• How do I know when it’s done?
  The pudding is done when puffed and golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Conclusion

This Brown Butter Toffee Bread Pudding is not only delicious but also a comforting dish that brings joy to any meal. With its rich flavors, delightful textures, and the sweet treat of toffee bits, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again. So gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try—you and your loved ones will be glad you did!