Mary Berry’s Bread and Butter Pudding is a traditional baked custard dessert made from buttered slices of bread layered in a dish, sprinkled with dried fruit, and soaked in an egg-and-milk custard. As it bakes, the bread absorbs the custard, creating a soft, rich texture with golden edges. It’s one of the most comforting desserts in British baking.
8 slices white bread (stale or 1–2 days old works best)
50g softened butter (for spreading)
75g sultanas or raisins
3 large eggs
300ml whole milk
150ml double cream
50g caster sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional: grated nutmeg for topping
Prepare the bread: Butter each slice on one side and cut into triangles or halves.
Layer the bread: Arrange buttered bread pieces in the baking dish, slightly overlapping.
Add dried fruit: Scatter sultanas between and over the bread layers.
Make the custard: Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until combined.
Pour the mixture: Slowly pour the custard over the bread, ensuring even soaking.
Rest briefly: Let the pudding sit for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs flavour.
Bake in the oven: Cook until golden, risen, and the custard is just set.
Serve warm: Enjoy with cream, custard, or a dusting of icing sugar.