Simple Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

• 6 slices of day-old bread (white, whole wheat, or brioche), cut into cubes
• 2 cups milk (whole, skim, or plant-based)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
• 1 tbsp butter (for greasing)
• Optional topping: powdered sugar, whipped cream, or caramel sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches) with butter.
2. Prepare the Bread:
   • Place the bread cubes in the greased baking dish.
   • Sprinkle raisins or chocolate chips evenly over the bread, if using.
3. Make the Custard:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Assemble the Pudding:
   • Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
   • Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
5. Bake:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Serve:
   • Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving.
   • Top with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or caramel sauce if desired.

This simple bread pudding is warm, comforting, and perfect for using up leftover bread! 🥖🍮