Decadent Vanilla Bread and Butter Pudding with Caramelized Apples

Bread and Butter Pudding is a beloved dessert found in various cultures, but this rendition blends the essence of Zimbabwean flavors with a touch of sophistication. The creamy richness of the pudding, laced with decadent vanilla, meets the sweet, warming notes of caramelized apples, bringing forth a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. As you prepare this wonderful dessert, let your imagination roam – perhaps consider how you could share it with others or even list it on Zimbo Menu, Zimbabwe’s local food marketplace. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

10 slices of day-old bread (white or whole grain)

100g butter, softened

4 large eggs

500ml milk

200ml cream

150g sugar

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

A pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While it heats, generously butter each slice of bread on both sides. Cut the slices into triangles or quarters – whichever shape you prefer for your pudding.
Layer the Bread: In a buttered baking dish, layer half of the prepared bread slices across the bottom. Over the bread, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon to infuse warmth into the pudding.
Apple Preparation: In a pan over medium heat, mix the sliced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of cinnamon. Sauté until the apples have softened and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. This step is key to bringing out the natural sweetness of the apples and will enhance the pudding flavor.
Layer the Apples: Evenly distribute the caramelized apples over the first layer of bread in the baking dish. Follow this with the remaining slices of bread, creating another layer.
Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until fully combined. This mixture will soak into the bread, creating that adorable custardy goodness.
Pour the Custard: Slowly pour the custard mixture over the layered bread and apples, ensuring each piece is saturated. Allow the pudding to sit for about 15 minutes so the bread can soak up the custard.
Baking Time: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding is golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be slightly crispy, offering a delightful contrast to the soft custard beneath.
Serving: Once baked, let the pudding sit for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with extra caramel sauce or a swirl of cream. This dessert not only delights the senses but also carries a taste of Zimbabwe’s culinary heritage.

Cooking Tips

Using day-old bread is essential; it soaks up the custard better without becoming mushy.

Experiment with different apple varieties for varied flavor profiles – tart apples like Granny Smith add wonderful contrast.

For an extra indulgent touch, consider adding white chocolate chunks or crushed nuts between the layers.

Final Thoughts

This Decadent Vanilla Bread and Butter Pudding with Caramelized Apples is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that invites sharing and creating memories with loved ones. Imagine offering this pudding on Zimbo Menu, allowing others to enjoy your culinary passion. As you explore such recipes, why not envision expanding into your small business? Download the Zimbo Menu apps to see if the Zimbo Menu Marketplace is a perfect fit for your hobbies and business aspirations.

Explore More

Interested in more unique dessert ideas? Check out recipes on sites like BBC Good Food or AllRecipes. They offer a plethora of options to inspire your next culinary adventure!