Cookie Butter Bread Pudding

Cookie Butter Bread Pudding 🍪🍞

Introduction:

Bread pudding is a classic dessert that has a rich history in many cultures, made from leftover bread, eggs, milk, and sugar. It has evolved over the years with countless variations, and one of the most delicious twists you can try is Cookie Butter Bread Pudding. The sweet, spiced flavor of cookie butter combines perfectly with the comforting, custardy base of bread pudding, creating a dessert that is both nostalgic and exciting. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family gathering, this recipe will surely be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 5 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup cookie butter (smooth or crunchy, depending on preference)
• 3 cups cubed day-old bread (Brioche, French bread, or challah work great)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, e.g. pecans or walnuts)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)

Method & Instructions:

1. Prepare the Custard:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, and cookie butter until the cookie butter is fully dissolved into the liquid.
   • Add in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Prepare the Bread:
   • Cut or tear the bread into bite-sized cubes. Day-old bread works best as it will absorb the custard mixture more easily without becoming too soggy.
   • If you want a richer flavor, you can lightly toast the bread cubes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Combine the Bread and Custard:
   • Place the bread cubes in a large bowl and pour the custard mixture over the bread. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, gently pressing the bread down to make sure all the cubes soak up the custard.
   • Optionally, fold in the chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the soaked bread mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
   • Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (a toothpick should come out clean when inserted).
5. Serve:
   • Let the bread pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, or top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finishing touch.

History of Bread Pudding:

Bread pudding is a dessert that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to Europe, particularly during medieval times, when it was a way to use up stale bread and avoid waste. It was known as a “poor man’s dessert” because it could be made with simple, readily available ingredients. Over time, it spread to various parts of the world, and many cultures adapted it to their tastes—creating unique regional variations.

In recent years, bread pudding has experienced a resurgence, often made more indulgent with the addition of rich ingredients like chocolate, fruit, or, in this case, cookie butter.

Why Cookie Butter?:

Cookie butter, also known as Speculoos, is a spiced, caramelized spread made from crushed cookies. It has a rich, warm flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of bread pudding. The combination of spices—typically cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg—enhances the depth of flavor and provides a comforting, fall-like essence to the dish.

Lovers of This Recipe:

Cookie Butter Bread Pudding is perfect for those who love:

• Rich, comforting desserts with a bit of spice and sweetness.
• Fans of cookie butter, who can’t get enough of its unique flavor.
• Bread pudding enthusiasts who want to try a new spin on this classic dish.
• Dessert lovers looking for a crowd-pleasing treat for holidays, brunches, or just a cozy night in.

Conclusion:

This Cookie Butter Bread Pudding is an elevated version of the classic dessert, offering rich and indulgent flavors that make it a crowd favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a cozy weekend treat, it’s guaranteed to delight your taste buds and impress anyone you serve it to. So, grab some day-old bread, whip up the custard, and bake your way to dessert heaven!

Enjoy! 🍰😋

Let me know if you want a visual for this recipe—I’d be happy to generate an image!