Introduction to Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s as comforting as a warm hug, let me introduce you to Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding. This dish is a sweet escape to the tropics, perfect for busy days when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a fantastic way to use up stale bread while treating your loved ones to something truly special. Trust me, this pudding will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding
Let’s be honest—life can get hectic, and finding time to whip up a delicious dessert can feel like a daunting task. That’s where this Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding shines! It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. Plus, the combination of sweet guava and creamy coconut creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s comfort food at its finest, and who doesn’t love that?
Ingredients for Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding
Now, let’s gather our ingredients for this delightful Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding. You’ll find that most of these items are pantry staples, making it easy to whip this up on a whim. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Stale Bread: About 3 cups of cubed stale bread, like French or brioche, works best. Stale bread absorbs the custard beautifully, giving you that perfect texture.
- Coconut Milk: One cup of coconut milk adds a rich, creamy flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk or even almond milk.
- Whole Milk: Another cup of whole milk balances the richness of the coconut milk. You can substitute with any milk you prefer, like oat or soy milk.
- Eggs: Three large eggs help bind everything together, creating that luscious custard. If you’re vegan, you can use flax eggs as a substitute.
- Sugar: Three-quarters of a cup of granulated sugar sweetens the pudding. Feel free to adjust this based on your sweetness preference or use coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a warm, inviting flavor. You can also use almond extract for a different twist.
- Ground Cinnamon: Just half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon brings warmth and depth to the dish. If you love spices, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg too!
- Salt: A quarter teaspoon of salt enhances all the flavors. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for balance.
- Guava Paste: One cup of diced guava paste is the star of the show! It adds a tropical sweetness that’s hard to resist. If you can’t find guava paste, you can use fresh guava or even mango for a different flavor.
- Shredded Coconut: Half a cup of shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened) adds texture and a delightful coconut flavor. You can toast it for an extra crunch!
- Butter: Two tablespoons of melted butter help with richness and flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil works beautifully.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: Optional for garnish, fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing touch when serving.
For exact measurements, you can find them at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that will impress everyone at the table.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with a little butter. This will help prevent any sticking and make cleanup a breeze later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Guava
In a large mixing bowl, toss together your cubed stale bread and diced guava paste. Make sure the guava is evenly distributed among the bread cubes. This step is crucial because you want every bite to be bursting with that tropical flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruits at this stage!
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, whole milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. You want this mixture to be smooth and well combined. The coconut milk and eggs will create that rich custard base that makes this pudding so irresistible. Don’t be shy—give it a good whisk!
Step 4: Combine and Soak
Now, pour that luscious milk mixture over the bread and guava. Make sure all the bread is soaked well. This is where the magic happens! Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This soaking time allows the bread to absorb all those delicious flavors, making every bite a taste of paradise.
Step 5: Add Coconut and Butter
After the bread has soaked up all that goodness, gently stir in the shredded coconut and melted butter. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep those lovely chunks of bread intact. The coconut adds a delightful texture and enhances the tropical vibe of this Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding.
Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the pudding cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps it set up a bit more, making it easier to slice. When you’re ready to serve, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing touch. Trust me, your family will be raving about this dessert long after the last bite!
Tips for Success
- Use stale bread for the best texture; fresh bread can become mushy.
- Let the pudding sit for the full 15 minutes to absorb the liquid properly.
- Feel free to experiment with different fruits or nuts for added flavor.
- For a richer taste, serve with a drizzle of coconut cream or a scoop of ice cream.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days—if there are any!
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Essential for baking the pudding. A similar-sized dish will work too.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple for combining ingredients. Any size will do!
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing wet ingredients. A fork can work in a pinch.
- Knife: For dicing the guava paste. A simple kitchen knife is all you need.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Handy for accurate ingredient measurements. You can also eyeball it if you’re feeling adventurous!
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the pudding.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in some diced fresh mango or pineapple for an extra tropical twist that pairs beautifully with guava.
- Spiced Up: For a warm kick, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the custard mixture for a spiced flavor profile.
- Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use almond or oat milk instead of dairy for a delicious vegan-friendly dessert.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to make this pudding suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side elevates the dessert to a whole new level.
- Drizzle with Coconut Cream: A light drizzle of coconut cream adds richness and enhances the tropical flavors.
- Fresh Fruit Garnish: Serve with slices of fresh mango or pineapple for a colorful presentation.
- Enjoy with Coffee: A cup of strong coffee or a tropical fruit smoothie complements the sweetness perfectly.
FAQs about Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding
As you embark on your journey to create this delightful Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up when making this tropical treat:
1. Can I use fresh guava instead of guava paste?
Absolutely! If you can find fresh guava, feel free to use it. Just make sure to dice it into small pieces so it blends well with the bread. Fresh guava will give a slightly different texture and flavor, but it’s a delicious alternative!
2. How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven before serving for a warm, comforting dessert.
3. Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
You sure can! Prepare the pudding up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. This makes it a fantastic option for busy days or special occasions!
4. What can I serve with Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding?
This pudding pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of coconut cream. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. It’s a versatile dessert that complements many flavors!
5. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply substitute the bread with a gluten-free variety, and you’re good to go. This way, everyone can enjoy the tropical goodness of Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding without any worries!
Final Thoughts
Making Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding is more than just whipping up a dessert; it’s about creating a moment of joy and connection with your loved ones. The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, the laughter around the table, and those satisfied smiles as they take their first bite—these are the memories that make cooking worthwhile. This pudding is a delightful way to bring a taste of the tropics into your home, and I promise it will become a cherished favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious memories together!
Print
Caribbean Guava & Coconut Bread Pudding is a must-try!
A delicious Caribbean-inspired dessert featuring guava and coconut in a rich bread pudding.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups stale bread, cubed (French or brioche works well)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup guava paste, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the stale bread cubes and diced guava paste. Gently toss to distribute the guava evenly among the bread.
- In another bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, whole milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the milk mixture over the bread and guava, ensuring all the bread is soaked. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Stir in the shredded coconut and melted butter, mixing gently to combine.
- Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread pudding to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of coconut cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: Not specified
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: Not specified
- Unsaturated Fat: Not specified
- Trans Fat: Not specified
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: Not specified
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: Not specified