Belizean Bread Pudding Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 35 minutes  

   Prep Time: 25 minutes

Belizean Bread Pudding Ingredients

Belizean Bread Pudding Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
  2. Place the golden raisins in a small bowl and pour the dark rum over them. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes to plump up.
  3. Cut the day-old brioche or challah bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, dark brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and melted butter until smooth and well combined.
  5. Add the whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, kosher salt, and orange zest to the egg mixture. Whisk until fully incorporated.
  6. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish, making sure all the bread is soaked. Gently press the bread down with a spatula to help it absorb the liquid.
  7. Drain the soaked raisins and sprinkle them evenly over the bread mixture. If using, scatter the chopped pecans on top as well.
  8. Let the bread and custard mixture sit for 20 minutes at room temperature to allow the bread to fully soak up the custard.
  9. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool in the baking dish for at least 20 minutes before serving.
  11. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with caramel sauce and whipped cream if desired.

Estimated Calories: 350, Servings: 8

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About Belizean Bread Pudding Recipe

If you're searching for the best and most authentic dessert experience, you have to try this Belizean Bread Pudding recipe! This homemade treat is a beloved classic, known for its rich flavors and comforting texture. The best part? It's incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll learn how to make a delicious and tasty dessert that captures the heart of Belizean cuisine.
One of the secrets to creating the perfect bread pudding is using the right combination of ingredients and following some essential tips. This recipe calls for everyday staples like bread, milk, eggs, sugar, and spices, which come together to form a mouthwatering, authentic dessert. If you've ever wondered how to make a quick and easy bread pudding that's both homemade and bursting with flavor, this is the recipe for you! The result is a moist, flavorful pudding that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Don't miss out on the chance to enjoy a truly tasty and authentic Belizean dessert. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight treat or a show-stopping dish for special occasions, this bread pudding recipe is the perfect choice. Follow these easy steps and helpful tips to ensure your pudding turns out just right every time. Get ready to savor the best homemade bread pudding-delicious, quick, and absolutely unforgettable!

Belizean Bread Pudding History

Belizean bread pudding has its roots in the rich and diverse cultural tapestry of Belize, where British, Creole, Mestizo, and Garifuna influences all come together. This dessert is a great example of how local communities made the best use of leftover bread, turning it into something both delicious and comforting. The recipe reflects a tradition of resourcefulness and creativity, which is a hallmark of Belizean cuisine. It is a good reminder of how food can bring people together, especially during holidays and family gatherings.
Over time, the bread pudding recipe in Belize has evolved to suit changing tastes and available ingredients. While the original versions were simple and easy to make, modern cooks have added their own twists, making it even more delicious and sometimes healthier. Some people now use coconut milk or add tropical fruits, which gives the dish a unique Belizean flair. The best part is that it remains a quick and fast dessert to prepare, perfect for busy families who want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen.
Regional adaptations of bread pudding in Belize are fascinating, as each area puts its own spin on the classic recipe. In coastal regions, you might find a version with more spices or even a splash of local rum, making it extra special for celebrations. Inland, the pudding might be a bit denser or use different types of bread, depending on what is available. These variations show how a good recipe can be both flexible and deeply rooted in local traditions, making Belizean bread pudding a beloved treat across the country.

Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, Belizean Bread Pudding is best kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great way to keep the dessert fresh and delicious for several days, especially if you made a big batch from your favorite recipe. For those who want a quick and easy snack, slicing the pudding before storing makes it fast to grab a piece whenever you crave something sweet and healthy.Shelf life is another important factor to consider. Typically, Belizean Bread Pudding will stay good in the fridge for about three to five days. If you want to keep it for longer, freezing is a good option, and it can last up to two months that way. Just make sure to wrap it well to retain its flavor and texture, so every bite remains as delicious as when it was first baked.Reheating is super easy and can really bring back that just-baked taste. The best method is to use a microwave for a quick warm-up, or you can pop it in the oven for a few minutes if you want to keep the edges a bit crisp. Either way, reheating is fast and helps the pudding taste as great as when it was fresh, making it a fantastic choice for a quick dessert or a healthy breakfast treat.

Healthy Belizean Bread Pudding Tips

When it comes to making the best Belizean Bread Pudding recipe a bit healthier, there are some easy and quick swaps you can try without sacrificing that authentic, homemade flavor everyone loves. First, let's talk ingredients: opt for whole grain or multigrain bread instead of white bread to boost fiber and keep your digestive health in check. You can also use low-fat or plant-based milk alternatives, which help cut down on saturated fat while still delivering that creamy, delicious texture. For sweetness, try reducing the sugar or using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup-your blood sugar will thank you, and you'll still get that tasty, perfect finish. These simple changes make the recipe not just easy and quick, but also a bit more heart-friendly.
If you're wondering how to make this classic treat even more health-conscious, here are some extra tips: add in fruits like raisins, apples, or even a handful of berries for a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. Swapping out butter for a small amount of coconut oil or olive oil can also improve the health profile of your Belizean dessert. Remember, the best recipes are the ones that make you feel good inside and out! With these health-focused tweaks, you'll have a delicious, authentic, and homemade bread pudding that's both tasty and guilt-free. Who knew that making the perfect Belizean treat could be so good for your health-and your taste buds?

Belizean Bread Pudding Story

I remember the first time I turned to this recipe during a particularly rough patch in my life. I had just moved to a new city, and everything felt unfamiliar and overwhelming. My job was demanding, and making friends seemed impossible. One evening, after a long and exhausting day, I decided to try something that reminded me of home. I wanted something easy and quick, something that would not require too much effort but would still feel special. That night, as I sat in my tiny apartment, the simple act of preparing this dish brought a sense of calm and comfort I did not expect.
What surprised me most was how fast the mood in my apartment shifted. The familiar aroma filled the air, and suddenly, the loneliness did not feel so heavy. I realized that sometimes the best way to take care of yourself is to lean into the things that make you feel good, even if they seem small. The process was almost meditative, and by the time I was done, I felt lighter. It was a delicious reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there are ways to create moments of peace and joy.
Since then, this has become my go to comfort food whenever life feels uncertain. It is a great way to treat myself, and I love that it is both healthy and satisfying. The recipe is so easy to follow that I can whip it up even on my busiest days. It is amazing how something so simple can have such a powerful effect. Every time I make it, I am reminded that comfort can come from the most unexpected places, and that sometimes, the quickest solutions are the ones that work best.