Irish Soda Bread Pudding Recipe – Easy Kitchen Guide

By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on December 8, 2023 | Last Updated on December 8, 2023

When it comes to comfort food, bread pudding is a classic dish that never disappoints. With our Irish soda bread pudding, we’re taking this traditional dessert to new heights by incorporating the rustic and nutty flavors of Irish soda bread.

Perfect for breakfast or as an indulgent dessert, this recipe will surely delight your family and friends. But don’t be intimidated by the term “bread pudding”, because, with our simple step-by-step directions, you’ll be whipping up this delicious dish in no time.

So let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to create a creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious Irish soda bread pudding!  Whether you’re a fan of Irish cuisine or just looking for a unique twist on a classic dessert, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

What is Irish Soda Bread Pudding?

Irish soda bread pudding is a traditional Irish dessert made by combining Irish soda bread with a custard base and baking it to perfection. It has all the classic elements of a bread pudding – soft, creamy, and indulgent – but with the added nutty and hearty flavors of Irish soda bread.

The key ingredient in this dish is, of course, the Irish soda bread. This type of bread is leavened with baking soda instead of yeast, giving it a unique texture and flavor. When combined with the custard base, it creates a rich and delightful treat that will have you coming back for seconds. 

Why You’ll Love This Irish Soda Bread Pudding?

If you love bread pudding, this Irish soda bread version will become your new favorite. The Irish soda bread adds a whole new level of flavor and texture to the dish, making it stand out from traditional versions.

Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a brunch dish, dessert, or even as a unique side to accompany a savory meal. You can also easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

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Ingredients 

• Sugar: Use granulated white sugar for this recipe.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish. You can also use salted butter, just adjust the amount of added salt accordingly.
• Eggs: Large eggs work best in this recipe.
• Irish soda bread: This is the star ingredient of the dish. Traditional Irish soda bread will give the best results, but you can also use store-bought or homemade soda bread with raisins.
• Vanilla: Pure vanilla extract gives this dish a delicious flavor. You can also omit it if you prefer.
• Half & half: This dairy product is a combination of half whole milk and half heavy cream. If you don’t have access to half & half, you can make your own by combining equal parts of whole milk and heavy cream.
• Salt: A pinch of kosher salt enhances the flavors in this dish. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

Directions 

Step 1

Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with a small amount of butter.

Step 2

Make the Custard Base

• In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and melted butter until well combined.
• Add in half & half, vanilla, and eggs (whisked). Whisk until fully incorporated.

Step 3

Prep the Irish Soda Bread

• Cut the Irish soda bread into bite-sized pieces.
• Place half of the bread pieces in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 4

Assemble and Bake

• Pour half of the custard base over the bread pieces, ensuring they are fully coated.
• Add another layer of bread pieces on top and pour the remaining custard base over them.
• Sprinkle a pinch of Kosher salt on top.
• Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top.

Step 5

Serve and Enjoy

• Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
• Serve with your choice of toppings.

Notes 

• For a unique twist, you can add raisins or other dried fruits to the bread pieces before assembling.
• This Irish soda bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
• For an even richer custard base, you can use heavy cream instead of half & half. Keep in mind that this will make the dish more indulgent and heavier.

Storage Tips 

• Store any leftover Irish soda bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
• You can also freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Nutrition Information 

Serving Suggestions 

Here are a few ideas for serving and enjoying your Irish soda bread pudding:

• Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
• Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Enjoy it as a decadent breakfast dish with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
• Top it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve it alongside a savory dish, such as roasted chicken or stew, for a unique side that will surprise and delight your guests.

What other substitute can I use in Irish Soda Bread Pudding? 

If you don’t have access to all the ingredients or you want to make some substitutions, here are a few suggestions:

• Instead of Irish soda bread, you can use any other crusty bread with a similar texture and flavor.
• Half & half can be substituted with equal parts of whole milk and heavy cream.
• You can also use almond or coconut milk instead of dairy milk for a non-dairy version. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture of the dish slightly.
• To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread or almond flour instead of regular flour in the custard base.

FAQs

Conclusion

Irish soda bread pudding is a delicious and versatile dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With its unique flavors and customizable toppings, it’s perfect for any occasion or meal.

Whether you enjoy it warm with ice cream or alongside a hearty dinner, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering treat that celebrates the flavors of Ireland.

Thank you for reading and make sure to share this article with friends and family who will enjoy this tasty Irish treat.

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