It’s the sort of humble dessert that brings back cosy childhood memories, fills the kitchen with a creamy, vanilla-scented warmth, and turns a few basic ingredients into something truly magical.
Today, I’m sharing my easiest-ever version of bread and butter pudding — no faffing, no fancy extras — just simple goodness.
This version uses sliced buttered bread, a generous slathering of jam, a single egg, and a dreamy mix of evaporated milk and cream. It’s perfect when you want pudding without a big shop or a long prep time.
What You’ll Need:
4–6 slices of white or brioche bread (slightly stale is best)
Butter (enough for spreading)
Jam (raspberry, strawberry, or even marmalade – your choice!)
1 egg
150ml evaporated milk
100ml double cream
1–2 tbsp sugar (optional, depending on your jam)
A little vanilla extract or cinnamon (optional)
Demerara sugar for sprinkling (optional, but delicious)
Method:
Preheat your oven to 170°C (fan) / 190°C / Gas Mark 5.
Butter the bread generously, then spread jam on each slice. Cut them into triangles or halves, depending on your dish.
Layer the slices in a small baking dish, overlapping slightly and tucking them in snugly.
In a jug, whisk the egg, evaporated milk, double cream, sugar (if using), and a splash of vanilla or a pinch of cinnamon.
Pour the custard mixture gently over the bread, making sure all the pieces are soaked. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes so the bread absorbs some of the liquid.
Sprinkle a little demerara sugar on top for a lovely golden crunch.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until the custard is just set and the top is golden and crisp at the edges.
To Serve:
Serve warm with a drizzle of extra cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or just as it is. It’s also lovely cold from the fridge the next day (if there’s any left!).
Why This Recipe Works:
This pudding is a great way to use up bits of bread and half-empty jars of jam. The evaporated milk adds richness without being too heavy, while the cream gives it that proper pudding feel. And with just one egg, it stays light and custardy.
It’s proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated.
Have a favourite jam or a nostalgic pudding memory? Let me know in the comments or tag me in your creations — I’d love to see your twists on this classic!