Irish Bread Pudding

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare Bread and Soak Raisins

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9x13 inch baking dish.
   • In a small bowl, combine the raisins with 1/4 cup of Irish whiskey. Set aside to soak for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing them to plump up.
   • Spread the stale bread cubes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
2. 2

   Make the Custard and Soak Bread

   • In a large bowl, whisk 4 large eggs with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is pale yellow and slightly thickened.
   • Gradually whisk in the whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until everything is smoothly combined.
   • Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula to ensure it's fully submerged. Let the dish sit for 20-30 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the rich custard.
3. 3

   Bake the Bread Pudding

   • Drain any excess whiskey from the raisins and scatter them evenly over the soaked bread.
   • Melt 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) of the unsalted butter and drizzle it over the entire surface of the pudding.
   • Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean, and it should have only a slight jiggle.
4. 4

   Prepare the Irish Whiskey Sauce

   • While the pudding bakes, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
   • Whisk in the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar and the final large egg. It is crucial to keep the heat very low to prevent scrambling.
   • Continue whisking constantly and vigorously for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Do not allow it to boil.
   • Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of Irish whiskey.
5. 5

   Rest and Serve

   • Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This allows the custard to set fully, making it easier to slice.
   • Cut into squares and serve warm, drizzled generously with the prepared Irish whiskey sauce.