Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Cheddar Bread Pudding Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, you’ll love this Sourdough Cheddar Bread Pudding.
It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and the hearty texture of sourdough. I can’t get enough of how the sharp cheddar elevates each bite, making it rich without being overwhelming.
Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, which is a bonus for busy days. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it on its own, this dish always impresses.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation.
Ingredients of Sourdough Cheddar Bread Pudding
When it comes to whipping up something truly delicious, the ingredients are where it all begins. For Sourdough Cheddar Bread Pudding, you’ll want to gather some simple yet flavorful items. Imagine this: crusty sourdough bread, rich cheddar cheese, and a few basic pantry staples that come together to create magic. Sounds good, right? Trust me, you won’t regret diving into this recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 10 slices of sourdough bread, cubed
- 6 ounces of cheddar cheese, grated
- 6 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 cups of milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
- 3 egg whites
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a moment. The star here is definitely the sourdough bread; it’s got that delightful tang that pairs so well with the cheesy goodness.
And speaking of cheese, feel free to mix and match the types of cheddar you use! You could go all sharp for that bold flavor, or maybe add some mild cheddar to balance things out.
And don’t forget the spices—cayenne pepper adds just a hint of kick, while Worcestershire sauce gives it that umami boost that makes you say, “Wow, what’s that flavor?”
How to Make Sourdough Cheddar Bread Pudding
Let’s plunge into making that mouthwatering Sourdough Cheddar Bread Pudding. First things first, grab your 1/2 cup of butter and toss it into a large saucepan over medium heat. As it melts, you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste, but resist—there’s a lot more deliciousness coming.
Once the butter is melted, take those 10 slices of cubed sourdough bread and add them to the pan. Stir them around until they’re all nicely coated in that buttery goodness. It’s like giving them a little spa day, and trust me, they’ll thank you later by soaking up all the flavors.
Now, let’s talk cheese—cheddar cheese, to be precise. Sprinkle in 6 ounces of grated cheddar and 6 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese. Give everything a good stir, combining the bread and cheese until it’s all mixed together.
Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of milk, 3 egg yolks, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and those 2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce. It might seem like a lot of ingredients, but each one contributes to that savory, cheesy flavor explosion. Once it’s all well-blended, pour this mixture over your bread and cheese combo, ensuring every last cube gets drenched.
Now for the fun part: let’s get some air into those egg whites. In a separate bowl, beat 3 egg whites until they’re stiff but not dry—think fluffy clouds, not meringue. Gently fold those into your bread mixture, being careful not to deflate them too much. This is what’ll make your bread pudding light and airy.
Once everything is mixed, spoon the concoction into a lightly greased 9-inch square baking dish and cover it up. Here’s a little tip: let it chill in the fridge overnight. This step is key; it allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven at 325°F for about 30 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and soon enough, you’ll have a delightful dish to serve that’s as comforting as a warm hug. Enjoy!
Sourdough Cheddar Bread Pudding Substitutions & Variations
After mastering the classic Sourdough Cheddar Bread Pudding, it’s exciting to explore all the ways you can customize this dish.
You can swap out the cheddar for Gruyère or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, add sautéed onions or mushrooms for depth. For a touch of sweetness, consider mixing in some caramelized apples or pears.
You can also use a mix of breads—rye or whole grain could add unique flavors. And if you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegan cheese substitute.
The possibilities are endless!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing Sourdough Cheddar Bread Pudding, keep a few tips in mind to enhance your dish.
First, use day-old sourdough for better texture; it absorbs the custard beautifully.
Don’t skip chilling overnight; it helps the flavors meld and the pudding firm up.
If you want a little kick, add more cayenne or even some crumbled bacon.
For a richer taste, experiment with a mix of cheeses—Gruyère or mozzarella can add depth.
Finally, serve it warm with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of sour cream; it’s a delightful contrast to the savory pudding!
Enjoy your creation!