Bread pudding pie is a delightful twist on the classic bread pudding recipe, offering a delicious and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
This article will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this mouth-watering treat, providing detailed instructions and tips to ensure your bread pudding pie is a hit.
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients
a) 4 cups of cubed bread (preferably stale)
b) 2 cups of milk
c) 1 cup of heavy cream
d) 4 large eggs
e) 1 cup of granulated sugar
f) 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
g) 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
h) 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins
a) 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries
b) 1/2 cup of chocolate chips
c) 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
For the Pie Crust
1 pre-made pie crust or homemade pie crust (recipe below)
Choosing the Right Bread
The type of bread you use can significantly affect the texture and flavor of your bread pudding pie. Opt for sturdy, slightly stale bread such as:
a) French bread
b) Brioche
c) Challah
d) Sourdough
Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better, ensuring a more uniform and flavorful pie.
Preparing the Bread
Step 1: Cubing the Bread
Cut your chosen bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is too fresh, you can dry it out in the oven at 200°F for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Setting the Bread Aside
Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl and set it aside while you prepare the custard.
Making the Custard
Step 1: Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 2: Ensuring Smoothness
For a smoother custard, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any egg lumps.
Combining Bread and Custard
Step 1: Pouring the Custard
Pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly soaked.
Step 2: Letting It Sit
Allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes. This helps the bread absorb the flavors and prevents a dry pie.
Adding Flavor Enhancements
Step 1: Incorporating Add-ins
Mix in your chosen add-ins such as raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts to add extra flavor and texture.
Step 2: Gently Mixing
Fold the add-ins gently into the soaked bread to ensure even distribution.
Preparing the Pie Crust
Step 1: Choosing Your Crust
You can use a store-bought pie crust or make one from scratch. Here’s a simple recipe for a homemade pie crust:
Homemade Pie Crust Ingredients
a) 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
b) 1/2 teaspoon of salt
c) 1/2 cup of cold butter, cubed
d) 1/4 cup of ice water
Step 2: Making the Crust
a) In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
b) Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
c) Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together.
d) Roll out the dough on a floured surface and place it in a pie dish.
Assembling the Bread Pudding Pie
Step 1: Prepping the Crust
If using a homemade pie crust, roll it out and fit it into your pie dish. Crimp the edges as desired.
Step 2: Adding the Filling
Pour the soaked bread and custard mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Baking Instructions
Step 1: Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Baking the Pie
Place the assembled pie on the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
Checking for Doneness
Step 1: The Toothpick Test
Insert a toothpick or knife into the center of the pie. If it comes out clean, the pie is done.
Step 2: The Jiggle Test
Gently shake the pie. The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquidy.
Cooling and Serving
Step 1: Cooling the Pie
Allow the bread pudding pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the custard set further and makes slicing easier.
Step 2: Serving the Pie
Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Toppings
a) A dollop of whipped cream
b) A scoop of vanilla ice cream
c) A drizzle of caramel sauce
d) A sprinkle of powdered sugar
Pairings
Bread pudding pie pairs well with:
a) Fresh berries
b) A cup of coffee or tea
c) A glass of dessert wine
Storing Leftovers
Step 1: Cooling Completely
Ensure the pie is completely cooled before storing.
Step 2: Storing in the Refrigerator
Cover the pie with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Step 3: Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion
Bread pudding pie is a delightful dessert that combines the best aspects of bread pudding and pie.
With its creamy custard filling and crunchy crust, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
By following this detailed recipe, you can create a delicious and impressive bread pudding pie that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
A1. Yes, but fresh bread should be dried out in the oven for a few minutes to help it absorb the custard better.
Q2. Can I make bread pudding pie ahead of time?
A2. Yes, you can prepare the pie up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
Q3. Can I freeze bread pudding pie?
A3. Yes, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q4. What other add-ins can I use?
A4. You can use dried fruits like apricots or figs, different nuts, or even caramel bits for a unique twist.
Q5. How can I make the pie more decadent?
A5. Use brioche or challah for a richer flavor, and consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture for an adult version.