Bread pudding is a classic comfort food, and this recipe elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence by using donuts! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover donuts, turning stale treats into a warm, gooey dessert that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the ultimate donut dessert transformation!
Why Use Donuts in Bread Pudding?
Donuts provide a unique texture and sweetness that elevates a traditional bread pudding. Their inherent sweetness reduces the need for excessive sugar in the custard, resulting in a less cloying and more balanced dessert. The cakey texture of donuts offers a delightful contrast to the creamy custard, creating a truly satisfying experience. Plus, it's a fantastic way to repurpose leftover donuts!
What Kind of Donuts Work Best?
While you can use almost any kind of donut, some work better than others. Glazed donuts are classic, offering a beautiful shine and sweet flavor that complements the custard perfectly. Cake donuts, especially those with a slightly drier texture, soak up the custard beautifully, resulting in a moist and flavorful pudding. Avoid donuts that are overly oily or greasy, as this can affect the final texture of the pudding.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 6-8 donuts, cut into 1-inch pieces (any variety will work, but glazed or cake donuts are ideal)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream, caramel sauce, chocolate shavings, powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Assemble the pudding: Gently toss the donut pieces in the custard, ensuring they're evenly coated. Arrange the donut pieces in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they are nestled together somewhat snugly.
- Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. This allows the custard to set further and prevents it from being too runny.
- Serve: Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, caramel sauce, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use day-old donuts?
Yes! Day-old donuts are perfect for bread pudding. Their slightly stale texture absorbs the custard beautifully, resulting in a moister final product.
What if I don't have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk, but the pudding will be slightly less rich. You could also use a combination of whole milk and half-and-half.
Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?
You can assemble the bread pudding ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze this bread pudding?
Yes, you can freeze leftover bread pudding. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What other flavors can I add?
Get creative! Consider adding spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or allspice. You could also add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
This donut bread pudding recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet donuts and creamy custard creates a delicious and comforting dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
