Mama’s Pear and Ginger Bread Pudding

Imagine a dessert that is both comforting and sophisticated, warming your heart while delighting your taste buds with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. If that sounds like a dream come true, then you’re in for a treat with Mama’s Unforgettable Pear and Ginger Bread Pudding. This heavenly concoction is sure to win you compliments and make your guests swoon with pleasure.

Pear and ginger are a match made in heaven, their flavors mingling and enhancing one another to create a perfect symphony of taste. The soft, juicy pears contrast beautifully with the warm, spicy ginger, while the rich, velvety bread pudding provides a delightful canvas for these two stars to shine.

What makes this recipe truly unforgettable is the secret ingredient: love. Yes, that’s right! Just like Mama used to make, this bread pudding is crafted with care and attention, ensuring that every bite is a little piece of happiness.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Quality ingredients are key to making this dish truly stand out. Opt for ripe, juicy pears that yield to gentle pressure when pressed. The ideal pear variety for this recipe is Anjou, Bosc, or Comice. Don’t forget the star spice: fresh ginger – it adds a zingy warmth that takes this dessert to the next level.

When it comes to bread, choose a sturdy, day-old loaf that can soak up the custard without disintegrating. Good options are challah, brioche, or a crusty country bread. The bread’s slightly stale texture allows it to absorb the luscious flavors of the pear, ginger, and custard, making every bite a rich and satisfying experience.

Setting the Stage for Success

Preparation is key when creating a memorable dessert like Mama’s Unforgettable Pear and Ginger Bread Pudding. First, gently toast the bread cubes to enhance their flavor and texture. Then, simmer the pears and ginger together in a mixture of sugar and spices, allowing their flavors to meld and intensify.

When it’s time to assemble the bread pudding, be sure to layer the ingredients just right. Start with a base of bread cubes, followed by the pear and ginger mixture, and repeat until your baking dish is filled. Finally, pour the custard over the layers, ensuring every nook and cranny is saturated with creamy goodness.

Bake the pudding to golden perfection, then let it rest for a short while to let the flavors meld even further. The result? A dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious, with a texture that’s at once tender and luscious.

So go ahead, indulge in the exquisite flavors of Mama’s Unforgettable Pear and Ginger Bread Pudding. It’s a dessert that’s perfect for special occasions, cozy family gatherings, or simply when you’re in the mood for a little slice of heaven. Serve it warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch as the smiles spread and the compliments flow.

This pear and gingerbread pudding is not only a scrumptious delight but also a testament to the power of love and tradition, passed down through generations. It’s a dessert that connects us to the past while creating new memories for the future. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of Mama’s Unforgettable Pear and Ginger Bread Pudding fill your kitchen and your hearts.

Now that you’ve been let in on the secret of this delightful dessert, don’t be surprised if it becomes a cherished favorite in your own family. After all, there’s nothing quite like the sweet, warm embrace of Mama’s Unforgettable Pear and Ginger Bread Pudding to bring people together and make any meal feel like a celebration.

Mama’s Unforgettable Pear and Ginger Bread Pudding

Course: DessertCuisine: American

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

A heartwarming, flavorful dessert that will become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread

• 3 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced

• 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, diced pears, and chopped crystallized ginger. Mix gently to combine.
• In another bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
• Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture, ensuring all the bread is soaked. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
• Transfer the bread pudding mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
• Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center. Let it cool slightly before serving.
• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

• You can substitute fresh ginger for crystallized ginger if preferred. Use 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger.
• Feel free to add chopped nuts or dried fruit for additional texture and flavor.
• For a dairy-free version, replace whole milk with almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter substitute.

Mama’s Unforgettable Pear and Ginger Bread Pudding pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The comforting flavors of this dessert also complement a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. For an even more indulgent experience, serve alongside a rich caramel or vanilla sauce. This bread pudding is the perfect end to a cozy, home-cooked meal with family and friends.