Imagine a dessert that transforms ordinary bread into a tropical paradise of flavor – our Spiced Pineapple Bread Pudding is about to become your new obsession! This mouthwatering treat combines the warm, comforting essence of traditional bread pudding with a surprising tropical twist that will transport you to a culinary wonderland. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a decadent dessert, this recipe promises to deliver a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cube the bread into roughly 1-inch pieces. If the bread is fresh, let the cubes sit out for 15-20 minutes to slightly dry out, which helps absorb the custard mixture better.
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly using a fine-mesh strainer, pressing gently to remove excess liquid. Set aside.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Add the drained pineapple to the bread cubes and gently toss to distribute evenly.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and pineapple, carefully folding to ensure all bread pieces are coated and moistened.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly and pressing down gently to help bread absorb the liquid.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. The pudding will continue to set as it cools.
- Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Use day-old bread or slightly stale bread for the best texture. Slightly dry bread absorbs the custard mixture more effectively, creating a more luxurious pudding.
- Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Make sure to remove as much liquid as possible from the crushed pineapple to prevent a soggy pudding. Use a fine-mesh strainer and gently press to extract excess moisture.
- Egg Mixture Technique: Whisk the eggs, milk, and spices until completely smooth to ensure even flavor distribution and a silky texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining bread and custard, fold gently to avoid breaking down the bread cubes too much. You want distinct pieces, not a mushy mixture.
- Baking Perfection: Watch the pudding carefully in the last 10 minutes of baking. The top should be golden brown, and the center should be set but still slightly jiggly.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dessert can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it perfect for entertaining or meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 80mg
