If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dessert that won’t derail your healthy eating habits, look no further than this plant-based, oil-free bread pudding. Not only is this recipe easy enough for beginners to master, but it also delivers excellent results every time! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to utilize that old bread lurking in your pantry. Let’s explore the simple ingredients that make this dish a nutritious dessert worth celebrating.
Why Use Up Old Bread?
Stale bread is often seen as food waste, but it’s perfect for bread pudding! Using old bread not only saves money but also prevents waste, making this recipe an eco-conscious choice. Day-old bread absorbs the custard mixture wonderfully, resulting in a rich, soft, and satisfying texture. The key is to ensure it’s dry enough to absorb those flavors while still holding its shape.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
- Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener not only adds a delightful flavor, but it also comes packed with beneficial nutrients, including manganese, zinc, and antioxidants. Maple syrup is lower on the glycemic index than refined sugars, making it a healthier option for sweetening your desserts.
- Cinnamon: Often called the “super spice,” cinnamon is more than just a flavorful addition. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential blood sugar-regulating abilities. Cinnamon can help enhance metabolism and add a warm, aromatic touch to your bread pudding.
- Plant-Based Milk: Substituting traditional dairy with plant-based milk (such as almond, oat, or soy) makes this pudding not only vegan but also easier to digest for those with lactose intolerance. Plant-based milk is typically lower in calories and can be fortified with vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D.
- Vanilla Extract: This ingredient elevates the flavor profile of your bread pudding with its sweet and creamy undertones. Vanilla is prized not just for its rich taste but also for its antioxidant properties, making it a healthy flavor choice that enhances other ingredients.
A Simple Recipe for All Skill Levels
Deliciously Healthy Plant-Based Bread Pudding: A Guilt-Free Delight
Equipment
Ingredients
- 5 cups cinnamon bread or any white or brown bread
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ½ tsp salt
- 2.5 cups plant based milk
- ⅓ cup corn starch
- 2 tsp vanilla
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare your 8 x 8 or 9 x 9 baking dish. You can grease it, but I prefer to keep this oil free.
- Cut your break into rough cubes. I'm using a cinnamon and brown bread. But I love this recipe because you can use up older bread. Mix and Match, it will taste delicious. Transfer your bread to your baking dish.
- In a large saucepan, add 2 cups of the milk, cinnamon, salt. Bring to a gentle simmer. While you are waiting for the milk to simmer, put 1/2 cup of plant based milk in a cup and add the cornstarch and whisk to get rid of any lumps.
- Once the plant based milk is at a gentle boil, add your slurry of cornstarch and plant based milk. Whisk continuously on a low heat until the mixture starts to thicken, which will take a few minutes.
- Pour the mixture over the bread in your baking dish. Move the bread around to allow the mixture to coat all the bread. Add in the pecans.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until lightly brown. I love to serve this with some vanilla nice cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.
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Indulgence Without Guilt
This healthy plant-based bread pudding is a delightful way to create a comforting dessert that nourishes both the body and the soul. With its oil-free recipe and simple preparation, it’s perfect for beginners, busy weeknights, or a family gathering. Not only do you get to enjoy an indulgent treat, but you also make a smart choice by using up old bread and opting for wholesome, natural ingredients. Satisfy your sweet tooth while sticking to your health goals—this bread pudding makes it easy and delicious! Enjoy every bite of this guilt-free dessert!