Nutmeg Cafe-Style Bread Pudding with Orange Zest

Citrus-Infused Bread Pudding for the Modern Palate

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Prep Time: 20 minutes | Bake Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 70 minutes | Servings: 8

Within the comforting embrace of traditional desserts lies the potential for delightful innovation. Our Nutmeg Cafe-style bread pudding is not merely a dish, but a narrative of flavors, each spoonful a chapter that resonates with the warm familiarity of nutmeg and cinnamon, underscored by a vibrant burst of orange zest. This recipe is designed for those who appreciate the classics but are not afraid to infuse them with a touch of the extraordinary. It is perfect for serene evenings or as the centerpiece of a festive table, offering a comforting yet sophisticated taste experience.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of day-old bread (such as challah or brioche), cut into 1-inch cubes

• 3 cups whole milk

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

• Butter, for greasing the baking dish

• Confectioners' sugar, for dusting (optional)

• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

• Pinch of salt

• Grated zest of one orange

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and orange zest until well combined. Stir in the raisins if using.

3. Soak the Bread: Add the bread cubes to the bowl, mixing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked. Let sit for about 10 minutes.

4. Bake: Transfer the soaked bread into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

5. Serve: Let cool slightly, then dust with confectioners' sugar if desired. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.

Embrace the elegance of simplicity with our Nutmeg Cafe-Style Bread Pudding, where every bite weaves the subtle intricacies of spice and citrus into a tapestry of flavor. This dessert not only satisfies the palate but also stirs the soul, making it a timeless addition to your culinary repertoire. Allow this dish to transform your next gathering into an occasion of gastronomic delight, where traditional textures meet contemporary tastes.