Find yourself with bread too stale for a sandwich? This is the perfect recipe for you!

This comforting dish is ideal for reducing food waste, while creating something delicious. Mix it up with whatever you have on hand – dried fruit, nuts, chocolate!

Ingredients

300g stale bread (any kind, crusts included)
500ml milk (or any dairy alternative)
3 eggs
100g sugar (or leftover sweetener like honey or syrup)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
50 g butter or margarine (plus extra for greasing)
100g mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, or any surplus fruits)
Zest of 1 orange or lemon (optional, for extra flavour)

Optional Toppings

Get fancy with a sprinkle of brown sugar for a caramelised topping, and a dollop of cream, custard, or yogurt for serving!

Method

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease an ovenproof dish with a little butter or margarine.

2. Prepare the bread: Tear the stale bread into chunks and place them in a large bowl.

3. Make the custard mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the surplus milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.

4. Combine bread and custard: Pour the custard mixture over the torn bread, making sure every piece is soaked. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid fully.

5. Add butter and fruit: Melt the butter and drizzle it over the soaked bread. Stir in the dried fruit and any surplus citrus zest you’re using.

6. Transfer to the baking dish: Pour the bread mixture into the greased dish. If you like, sprinkle a little brown sugar on top for a caramelised finish.

7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set in the middle. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil for the remaining baking time.