Bread pudding

Bread pudding with sweet cheese and raisins

If you're looking for a quick and comforting dessert, bread pudding with sweet cheese and raisins is the perfect choice. This traditional recipe combines the fluffy texture of bread with the creamy taste of cheese, making it a delicacy worth exploring. Whether you serve it as a sophisticated dessert or as a snack, this pudding will bring a smile to your face and remind you of warm moments spent with loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 500 g sweet cheese
- 250 g sugar
- 1 handful of raisins
- 8 eggs
- 500 ml milk
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 30 g butter
- A pinch of salt
- One loaf of bread (preferably sliced toast)

The history of bread pudding is fascinating, with this recipe having deep roots in culinary tradition. It is an ingenious way to use leftover bread, transforming it into a savory dessert. In many cultures, this recipe has been adapted and personalized, becoming a symbol of thrift and creativity in the kitchen.

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the sweet cheese is well-drained to avoid a too-wet pudding. If using raisins, you can soak them in warm water for 15 minutes to make them softer.

2. Preparing the egg mixture:
In a large bowl, beat the 6 eggs with a pinch of salt and the milk until you get a smooth mixture. It's important to ensure that the eggs are well incorporated for a uniform texture in the pudding.

3. Cheese mixture:
In another bowl, mix the sweet cheese with the sugar, vanilla sugar, and the two remaining eggs. Add the soaked raisins and mix well. This mixture will add a delicious taste and enticing aroma to the pudding.

4. Preparing the dish:
Grease a rectangular baking dish with butter, ensuring it is well covered. This step will help prevent the pudding from sticking to the dish and make it easier to turn out later.

5. Assembling the pudding:
Take the slices of bread and soak them in the egg and milk mixture. Place them in the dish, side by side, without squeezing them. Cover the sides of the dish with the slices of bread. Pour half of the cheese mixture over the layer of bread, then add another layer of soaked bread (this time, well squeezed). Continue with the remaining cheese mixture and finally add one last layer of bread.

6. Baking the pudding:
Sprinkle a few flakes of butter on top of the pudding and place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C. Bake for 45 minutes or until the pudding is golden and firm to the touch. It's important to ensure that the pudding is well baked to avoid a soft texture.

7. Cooling and serving:
Once the pudding is baked, let it cool slightly in the dish, covered, to stabilize. Then, turn the pudding out onto a platter. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. I recommend serving it with strawberry jam or a vanilla sauce to enhance its flavor.

Practical tips:
- You can also use other types of cheese, such as cottage cheese or ricotta, to vary the flavor.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- The pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative?
Yes, you can use almond or oat milk, but make sure to choose the unsweetened version to maintain the flavor balance.

- How can I make the pudding less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or omit the sugar from the cheese mixture.

- What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with fresh or dried fruits, such as apples, peaches, or cherries.

Possible variations:
- Chocolate pudding: add a few tablespoons of cocoa to the cheese mixture.
- Tropical pudding: replace the raisins with pineapple chunks and add shredded coconut.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of bread pudding contains about 300-350 calories, being a good source of protein due to the eggs and cheese. It can be an excellent choice to satisfy your sweet tooth while providing essential nutrients.

I hope you enjoy every bite of this delicious bread pudding with sweet cheese and raisins. Each step will bring you closer to a savory result that will delight everyone at the table!

 Ingredients: 500 g sweet cheese, 250 g sugar, a handful of raisins, 8 eggs, 500 ml milk, vanilla sugar, 30 g butter, a pinch of salt, a loaf of bread sliced as evenly as possible (preferably toast bread)

 Tags:  bread pudding