- Cubed day-old bread (5 slices, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- Eggs (4 large eggs)
- Milk (2 cups whole milk)
- Sugar (⅔ cup granulated sugar)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
- Butter or margarine (2 tablespoons, softened)
- Heavy cream (¼ cup heavy whipping cream)
- **Enhancing Flavor with Optional Add-ins**
- Freshly grated nutmeg (½ teaspoon for extra warmth and depth of flavor)
- Chopped nuts (1/3 cup mixed chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- Dried fruit (1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins)
- **SEO Keywords Included**
- Bread Pudding Recipe
- Slow Cooker Bread Pudding
- Day-Old Bread Cubes
- Egg-Based Dessert
- Warm and Cinnamon-Scented Treat
Steps
### How to Make Bread Pudding in the Slow Cooker: A Step-by-Step Guide
Bread pudding is a comforting dessert that's perfect for any occasion! Here’s how you can make this delicious dish using your slow cooker. Follow these easy steps and enjoy the rich, custardy texture of your homemade bread pudding.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 loaf stale brioche or challah bread
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 2 cups mini chocolate chips or caramel bits (optional)
#### Equipment:
- Slow cooker
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Preparation:
1. **Preheat Your Slow Cooker:** Set your slow cooker to low heat.
2. **Prepare the Bread:** Cut the stale brioche or challah bread into 1-inch cubes.
#### Mix the Custard Mixture:
3. **Combine Milk and Cream:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and heavy cream.
4. **Add Eggs and Sugar:** Whisk in the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
5. **Stir in Butter:** Gently stir in the melted butter.
#### Assemble the Bread Pudding:
6. **Layer Bread in Slow Cooker:** Place half of the bread cubes into your slow cooker.
7. **Pour Custard Mixture Over Bread:** Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
8. **Add Extras (Optional):** Add raisins or dried cranberries and mini chocolate chips if desired.
#### Cooking:
9. **Cover and Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours. Alternatively, you can let it sit at room temperature overnight to allow flavors to meld.
10. **Check Mixture:** After cooking, gently stir the bread pudding to ensure all pieces are well coated in custard.
#### Serving:
11. **Serve Warm:** Serve the bread pudding warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream on top for an extra special touch.
### SEO-Friendly Tips:
- Utilize keywords like "bread pudding slow cooker," "homemade dessert," and "rich, custardy texture."
- Highlight cooking times (4-6 hours) to cater to busy schedules.
- Include optional add-ins to make the recipe more versatile ("raisins or dried cranberries" and "mini chocolate chips").
- Mention serving suggestions for a complete dining experience.
### Conclusion:
Making bread pudding in your slow cooker is not only simple but also allows you to enjoy this classic dessert without the mess of baking. Perfect it with these steps, and soon you'll be sharing this comforting treat with family and friends!