Arabian Bread Pudding

Arabian bread pudding is a rich and creamy dessert that’s incredibly easy to make at home. With layers of toasted bread soaked in a luscious custard mixture, topped with sweet preserves and crunchy nuts, this traditional Arabian dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting sweet treat.

Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe is simple, versatile, and sure to impress.

What is Arabian Bread Pudding?

Arabian bread pudding is a sweet, custard-based dessert made with toasted bread slices, milk, sugar, and cream. The bread soaks up a rich custard mixture, turning soft and flavorful. Topped with fruit preserves and crunchy nuts, this pudding is usually served chilled, making it a refreshing and indulgent dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and minimal preparation.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite nuts, preserves, or spices.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Elegant enough to serve at gatherings and family events.

Ingredients

For the Custard Mixture:

• 2 tablespoons (30g) custard powder
• 4 tablespoons (60ml) milk (for dissolving custard powder)
• 2 cups (500ml) milk
• ¼ cup (50g) sugar
• A pinch of salt

For the Cream Mixture:

• 1 cup (237ml) heavy cream, chilled
• ¼ cup (76g) condensed milk
• ½ teaspoon (2ml) vanilla essence

For Assembly:

• 8 slices of white bread
• 3 teaspoons pineapple preserve
• 3 teaspoons mulberry preserve
• 5 to 6 cashew nuts
• 2 teaspoons ghee (for toasting the bread)

How to Make Arabian Bread Pudding

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture

1. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of custard powder with 4 tablespoons of milk until smooth.
2. In a small deep pot over medium heat, bring 2 cups of milk to a boil while stirring.
3. Add ¼ cup of sugar and a pinch of salt.
4. Stir in the prepared custard mixture and cook for 4–5 minutes until it thickens.
5. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Cream Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup chilled heavy cream, ¼ cup condensed milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla essence.
2. Whisk until the mixture becomes slightly thick and smooth.

3. Toast the Bread

1. Cut the edges off 8 slices of white bread.
2. Toast the slices in 2 teaspoons of ghee until golden and crispy.

4. Assemble the Pudding

1. Place 4 toasted bread slices in a serving dish.
2. Pour half of the custard mixture evenly over the bread.
3. Add the remaining 4 slices on top.
4. Pour the remaining custard and then the cream mixture over the layers.
5. Make sure all the bread is well soaked.

5. Garnish and Chill

1. Sprinkle 3 teaspoons each of pineapple and mulberry preserves on top.
2. Add chopped cashew nuts for a crunchy texture.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight for best results.

Serving Suggestion

Cut into slices and serve chilled. This dessert tastes best when the flavors have fully soaked in and the pudding is set.

Tips and Variations

• Use Fresh Bread: Fresh white bread gives the best texture. Avoid overly stale bread.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the custard and cream mixtures before assembly and adjust the sugar if needed.
• Add Spices: For extra flavor, add a pinch of cardamom, cinnamon, or nutmeg to the custard.
• Try Different Nuts: Swap cashews with almonds, pistachios, or walnuts for variety.

Arabian bread pudding is a must-try dessert for every homemaker. It’s creamy, sweet, and full of flavor with just the right amount of crunch. Whether you’re making it for a festive gathering or as a comforting dessert for your family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Give it a try today and enjoy the delightful taste of Arabian cuisine right at home!