Decadent Caramel Bread Pudding Strata
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Decadent Caramel Bread Pudding Strata. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch, this dish features layers of buttery bread soaked in a luscious caramel sauce, enhanced by a creamy custard made with wholesome eggs and milk. Prepare it the night before for a hassle-free morning delight. Serve this treat with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
dark brown sugar
1 cup (packed)
unsalted butter
1/2 cup (none)
light corn syrup
2 tablespoons (none)
white bread
12 slices (crusts trimmed)
whole milk
1 1/2 cups (none)
large eggs
6 (none)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a heavy saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar, unsalted butter, and light corn syrup.
2
Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the butter melts and the sugar fully dissolves.
3
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to bubble for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
4
Carefully pour the caramel mixture into a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish, tilting the dish to coat the bottom evenly. Let cool for a few minutes.
5
Arrange 6 slices of trimmed bread in a single layer on top of the caramel, trimming as necessary to fit.
6
Place the remaining slices of bread on top, again trimming as required to fit comfortably.
7
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, large eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
8
Pour this custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
9
Refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard.
10
The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
11
Remove the strata from the refrigerator and uncover. Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes, or until the bread is puffed and lightly golden.
12
Once baked, let the strata stand for 5 minutes before slicing.
13
Using a spatula, carefully invert each portion onto a plate so that the caramel side faces up. Serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Caramel Bread Pudding Strata?
It is a rich breakfast or brunch dish featuring layers of bread soaked in a homemade caramel sauce and a creamy egg custard.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
White bread is recommended. For the best texture, ensure the crusts are trimmed before layering.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, but dark brown sugar provides a deeper, richer molasses flavor that complements the caramel better.
How do I make the caramel sauce?
Combine dark brown sugar, unsalted butter, and light corn syrup in a saucepan, heating until the sugar dissolves and it bubbles slightly.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish is the ideal size for this recipe.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
No additional greasing is required as the caramel sauce coats the bottom of the dish.
Why do I need to trim the crusts off the bread?
Trimming the crusts ensures a uniform, soft, and custard-like texture throughout the entire dish.
How many slices of bread are required?
The recipe calls for 12 slices of white bread, divided into two layers.
What are the ingredients in the custard?
The custard is made by whisking together whole milk, large eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the strata overnight?
Yes, refrigerating overnight allows the bread to fully absorb the custard and lets the flavors meld.
Can I bake the strata immediately?
For the best results, the overnight soak is recommended; baking immediately may result in a drier texture.
What is the correct oven temperature for baking?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How long does the strata take to bake?
It should bake uncovered for approximately 40 minutes.
How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
The dish is ready when the bread is puffed up and has a light golden color.
Why should I invert the portions when serving?
Inverting the portions ensures the caramel sauce from the bottom of the dish ends up on top of the bread.
How do I invert the portions without making a mess?
Use a spatula to carefully lift each portion and flip it over onto a serving plate.
Can I use 2% milk instead of whole milk?
Whole milk provides the richest flavor, but 2% milk can be used as a substitute.
What should I serve with this dish?
It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel layer would add a lovely crunch.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the white bread with your favorite gluten-free bread slices.
What purpose does the light corn syrup serve?
The corn syrup helps create a smooth caramel texture and prevents the sugar from crystallizing.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What is the best way to reheat the strata?
Reheat portions in the microwave or in a low-temperature oven until warmed through.
Can I halve the recipe for a smaller group?
Yes, you can halve the ingredients and use a smaller square baking dish.
Why is it called a strata?
A strata is a type of layered casserole dish, similar to a bread pudding, often prepared ahead of time.
Should the bread be completely submerged in custard?
Yes, you should ensure all bread pieces are soaked to avoid any dry spots after baking.
Can I use vanilla bean paste instead of extract?
Yes, vanilla bean paste is an excellent substitute and will provide visible vanilla bean specks.
How long should the dish rest after baking?
Let the strata stand for about 5 minutes before slicing to allow it to set slightly.
Is this dish served warm or cold?
This Decadent Caramel Bread Pudding Strata is best served warm.