Paula Deen’s Crazy-Good Bread Pudding

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Paula Deen’s bread pudding is a beloved Southern classic, a comforting embrace of warm, sweet bread soaked in a rich custard and baked to golden perfection. But today, we’re taking this timeless recipe on a global culinary adventure, infusing it with flavors from diverse cultures to create a dish that’s both familiar and extraordinary.

Ingredients:

Paula Deen’s Bread Pudding:

  • 1 loaf stale bread, cubed
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Paula Deen Bread Pudding
    Paula Deen Bread Pudding

    Image Source: pinimg.com

    Global Fusion Additions:

  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped apricots
  • 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
  • Zest of one lemon
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup

  • Preparation Process:

    1. Prep the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
    2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, raisins, pecans, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, cardamom powder, and saffron threads.
    3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, honey, maple syrup, and lemon zest.
    4. Assemble: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and toss gently to coat. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
    5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
    6. Cool and Serve: Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

    Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

    Serving Ideas:

    Elegant Presentation: Serve individual portions in ramekins, garnished with a sprig of mint and a dollop of whipped cream.

  • Decadent Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
  • breakfast Treat: Enjoy warm with a cup of coffee or tea.

  • Cultural Influences:

    This recipe is a harmonious blend of Southern comfort food and global flavors. The base of Paula Deen’s classic bread pudding provides a comforting foundation, while the addition of dried fruits, spices, and sweeteners introduces elements from various cultures:

    Middle Eastern: The use of cardamom and saffron adds a touch of exotic spice.

  • Mediterranean: The lemon zest and honey bring a bright, citrusy note.
  • North American: The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and a nod to Canadian cuisine.

  • This fusion of flavors creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting, a testament to the power of culinary creativity.