British Bites: Bread and Butter Pudding

[Photograph: Sydney Oland]

This simple bread pudding is the perfect dessert after a filling meal. Rich and soft, it's often served with a custard sauce, but this version is so creamy and tender that it really doesn't need anything else but a strong cup of tea. If you have the time, letting the raisins sit in a few tablespoons of brandy before you assemble the pudding makes it even more decadent.

Removing the crust from the bread may seem like a lot of work, or even a bit wasteful. But trust me, when you take your first bite of this soft, luscious pudding it will all be worthwhile.

About the author: Sydney Oland lives in Somerville, Mass. Find more information at sydneyoland.com (or read eatingnosetotail.com)