Decadent Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Caramel Sauce
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Decadent Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Caramel Sauce. This delightful dessert combines the sweetness of plump raisins soaked in whiskey, with a custardy base of day-old French bread, enriched by cream and warm spices. Topped with a luscious caramel sauce that features the deep notes of whiskey and creamy butter, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. Serve warm for a memorable treat that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
raisins
1/2 cup (soaked in whiskey)
whiskey
3/4 cup (for soaking raisins)
milk
3/4 cup (for pudding)
granulated sugar
1 cup and 2 tablespoons (for pudding and topping)
vanilla extract
1 tablespoon (for flavor)
evaporated milk
1 (12 ounce) can (for custard base)
eggs
2 (beaten for custard)
coarse salt
1/2 teaspoon (for custard)
day-old French bread
16 ounces (cut into 1/2 inch cubes)
ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons (for topping)
granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups (for caramel sauce)
butter
1/4 cup (cubed for caramel sauce)
cream cheese
2 ounces (cubed for caramel sauce)
whiskey
1/4 cup (for caramel sauce)
milk
1/4 cup (for caramel sauce)
coarse salt
to taste (for caramel sauce)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Irish Bread Pudding?
It is a rich, comforting dessert made from day-old French bread cubes soaked in a sweet custard and topped with a whiskey-infused caramel sauce.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Day-old French bread is ideal because its dry texture allows it to absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.
How do I prepare the raisins?
The raisins should be soaked in 3/4 cup of whiskey to make them plump and flavorful before being added to the pudding.
Can I make this recipe without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the whiskey with apple juice or extra milk, though it will change the traditional flavor profile.
What is in the custard base?
The custard base consists of milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, evaporated milk, beaten eggs, and a pinch of coarse salt.
How do I make the whiskey caramel sauce?
The sauce is made by melting granulated sugar and combining it with butter, cream cheese, whiskey, milk, and salt until smooth.
What spices are used in the pudding?
The pudding is topped with a mixture of ground cinnamon and granulated sugar for a warm, aromatic finish.
Is this dessert served warm or cold?
This Irish bread pudding is best served warm to fully enjoy the gooey texture and the rich caramel sauce.
How long should I soak the raisins in whiskey?
Soak them until they are plump, which typically takes at least 30 minutes, but can be done longer for deeper flavor.
What size should the bread cubes be?
The French bread should be cut into approximately 1/2 inch cubes for the best consistency.
Can I use fresh bread if I don't have day-old bread?
Yes, but you should lightly toast the cubes in the oven first to dry them out so they absorb the custard properly.
What is the purpose of the cream cheese in the sauce?
The cream cheese adds a unique tanginess and extra creaminess to the whiskey caramel sauce.
How many eggs are required?
This recipe requires 2 eggs, which should be beaten before being added to the custard mixture.
Is this recipe suitable for holidays?
Yes, it is a perfect dessert for St. Patrick's Day, Christmas, or any special occasion.
Can I substitute the evaporated milk?
You can use heavy cream as a substitute, but evaporated milk provides a specific richness traditional to this recipe.
What type of whiskey should I use?
An Irish whiskey is recommended to maintain the authentic 'Irish' theme of the dessert.
How do I know when the bread pudding is finished baking?
The pudding is done when the custard is set and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts would be a great addition for some extra crunch.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can this bread pudding be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to two months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How do I reheat the bread pudding?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warm.
What kind of sugar is best for the sauce?
Granulated sugar is used to create the caramel base, which results in a smooth and sweet sauce.
Can I use a different fruit instead of raisins?
Dried cranberries or dried currants are excellent alternatives to raisins in this pudding.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat, though it does include dairy and eggs.
Can I use bourbon instead of whiskey?
Yes, bourbon can be used, but it will give the sauce a slightly sweeter, smokier flavor than Irish whiskey.
What baking dish is recommended?
A 9x13 inch baking dish or a large oval casserole dish is usually the best size for this amount of bread.
How much whiskey goes into the sauce?
The caramel sauce uses 1/4 cup of whiskey to provide that signature kick.
Why is coarse salt used in the caramel?
A touch of coarse salt balances the sweetness of the sugar and enhances the flavor of the whiskey.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and gently reheat it on the stove when you are ready to serve.
Does this recipe contain vanilla?
Yes, one tablespoon of vanilla extract is added to the custard for a warm, sweet flavor.