recipe for mary berry bread and butter pudding
I. Introduction
Mary Berry is an iconic figure in British cooking, renowned for her expertise and passion that have transcended over four decades. With a career that includes authoring over 70 cookbooks and a beloved judge position on The Great British Bake Off, Mary Berry has earned the hearts of many. Notably, in 2009, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Guild of Food Writers, and in 2012, she was honored with a CBE.
Her recipes, especially her bread and butter pudding, have become a staple in British households for its comforting essence. This dish, deeply rooted in history, carries a personal touch of Mary’s distinct style, offering room for modern nutrition adaptations, including vegan versions, ensuring it maintains its appeal to a wide audience.
II. Mary Berry’s Unique Approach & Historical Context
Mary Berry emphasizes quality ingredients, showcasing the importance of buttery, slightly stale bread, and rich custard. The bread and butter pudding’s history traces back to the Puritans, making it a quintessential British dish evolved over centuries. Mary’s recipe respects traditional elements while delivering her refined twist, making it a timeless favorite.
III. Notices on Ingredients & Equipment
- Ingredients:
- 6 slices of slightly stale white bread (preferably a day old)
- 50g unsalted butter, softened
- 4 tablespoons of golden syrup
- 50g muscovado sugar
- 2 tablespoons of sultanas
- 150ml double cream
- 4 large eggs
- 300ml whole milk
- Equipment:
- 1.5-liter baking dish
- Oven
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
IV. Recipe Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/350°F).
Butter the side of the bread and lightly brush each side with golden syrup. Slice the bread into uniform pieces and layer them in the baking dish, sprinkling with suet and sugar between layers.
Combine the sultanas, cream, eggs, milk, and any remaining sugar in a saucepan. After this, Gently heat the mixture, stirring until it is smooth.
Pour the custard over the bread until every piece is submerged.
Bake for about 45 minutes, until the top is golden-brown and the custard is set.
V. Flavor Profile & Nutritional Information
This dish offers a decadent balance between the caramelized syrup of the topping and the creamy, hearty custard. Each serving provides a satisfying satiety with moderate levels of protein and carbs, and due to cream usage, it’s rich in fat.
VI. Tips
- Troubleshooting: Ensure your oven is preheated to prevent uneven cooking.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Texture Tips: Bake with a breadcrumb topping for a delightful crunch.
VII. Alternative: Vegan Version
- Substitute dairy milk with almond milk and double cream with coconut cream.
- Use vegan butter for the bread and a flaxseed mixture as an egg replacement.
VIII. Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Experiment with adding apples or using cinnamon-spiced bread to enrich the flavor profile. Serve warm with a spoonful of clotted cream or a dollop of jam.
IX. Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to approximately 3 days. Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 160°C for the best results.
X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use gluten-free bread? Yes, ensuring you select a brand suitable for toasting and baking.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, just ensure to use a suitable dish to accommodate the larger quantity.
XI. Conclusion & Call to Action
Mary Berry’s bread and butter pudding is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience merging history with modern cooking sensibilities. We encourage you to prepare this classic dish and share your thoughts and tweaks with us!
