Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding: A Delightful Dessert

Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding is a delicious dessert that brings cozy comfort to any gathering. This indulgent treat blends the rich flavors of eggs, cream, and warm spices with the texture of soft bread, making it an irresistible choice for dessert lovers everywhere.

Why Make This Recipe

Bread pudding is a classic dish that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also makes the best use of leftover bread. It has a unique ability to bring together simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply craving something sweet to enjoy after dinner, Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding is perfect. The combination of subtle spices like cinnamon and nutmeg paired with the creaminess of custard is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding

Making Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding is both straightforward and rewarding. With a few essential ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a dessert that’s sure to get rave reviews.

Ingredients:

Day-old bread
Eggs
Milk
Heavy cream
Sugar
Vanilla extract
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Raisins
Butter

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
Tear the bread into pieces and place them in a large bowl.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread and add raisins. Let it soak for about 30 minutes.
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the pudding is set and golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a drizzle of caramel sauce or whipped cream if desired.

Pro Tips for Success with Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding

Choose the Right Bread: Use a sturdy bread like French or Italian, and opt for day-old bread, as it will absorb the custard mixture better.
Don’t Rush the Soaking: Letting the bread soak in the custard mixture for the full 30 minutes lets the flavors permeate thoroughly.
Check for Doneness: The pudding should be set in the center and a golden brown on top. If it looks too wet, you might need a few more minutes in the oven.
Serve Warm: This dish is best served warm, so consider timing your baking to have it fresh out of the oven for dessert.
Customize Your Toppings: Adding whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the experience, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Flavor Variations for Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding

Chocolate Chip Delight: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the bread mixture for a rich and creamy chocolate experience.
Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the pudding for added crunch and flavor.
Fruit Infusion: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a fruity twist.
Spices Galore: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or cloves to give the pudding a different flavor profile.
Citrusy Zest: Add a bit of grated orange or lemon zest for a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness.

Serving Suggestions for Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding

Warm with Whipped Cream: Serve the pudding warm topped with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a classic touch.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce can enhance the sweetness and add another layer of flavor.
A Scoop of Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Fresh Berries: Adding a few fresh berries can provide a tart balance to the sweetness of the pudding.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding

Refrigeration: Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Freezing: If you have more than you can eat within a few days, you can freeze the baked pudding for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|————|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 180mg |

FAQ About Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

While it’s best to use day-old bread because it absorbs the custard better, you can use fresh bread if you’re in a pinch. To make it more absorbent, you can lightly toast the fresh bread before tearing it into pieces.

Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pudding mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it the next day when you’re ready to serve. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld overnight.

Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?

Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version of Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding, use gluten-free bread. The other ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to ensure compatibility.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and melted butter. For a lighter option, you could also use a non-dairy milk combined with coconut cream for added richness.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make this dessert a bit healthier, consider reducing the sugar amount or using a sugar substitute. You could also replace some of the milk with low-fat varieties or add in mashed bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.

Final Thoughts

Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding is a dessert that succeeds in delivering warmth, comfort, and a touch of indulgence. Whether you’re whipping it up as a comforting treat for yourself or impressing guests at your next dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple. Enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen, and don’t forget to allow some time for the flavors to meld beautifully together. Happy baking!

Ruth’s Chris Bread Pudding

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Total Time: 80 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful dessert that blends rich flavors of eggs, cream, and warm spices with the soft texture of bread, making it perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Day-old bread
Eggs
Milk
Heavy cream
Sugar
Vanilla extract
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Raisins
Butter

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
Tear the bread into pieces and place them in a large bowl.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread and add raisins. Let it soak for about 30 minutes.
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the pudding is set and golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or topped with whipped cream for an enhanced experience.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American