Directions
Preparing the Pudding:
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your oven is hot and ready for the pudding, which helps it cook evenly and develop a golden-brown top.
Combine Bread and Raisins:
In a large bowl, place 4 cups of cubed white bread. Add 1/2 cup of raisins. The bread cubes should be approximately 1-inch in size. This combination will form the base of your pudding, with the raisins adding a touch of sweetness and texture.
Prepare the Milk Mixture:
In a 1-quart saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk with 1/4 cup of butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the butter to melt completely into the milk. This process usually takes about 4 to 7 minutes. The milk and butter mixture should be warm but not boiling.
Mix with Bread:
Pour the warm milk mixture over the bread and raisins. Let it sit for 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid. This step is crucial as it ensures the bread absorbs the flavors and softens, creating a rich, custard-like texture.
Add Remaining Ingredients: