Traditional Apricot Bread and Butter Pudding
Desserts

Traditional Apricot Bread and Butter Pudding

A classic South African comfort dessert made with layers of buttered bread and sweet apricot jam soaked in creamy custard.

15 minutes Serves 6Shared by gareth

Origin & History

This dish is a staple in many South African households, often served after Sunday lunch as a nostalgic treat.

Adjust servings:
6 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 slices white bread
  • 50g softened butter
  • 1/2 cup smooth apricot jam
    🇬🇧 UK tip:Available at most UK supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose) in the jam aisle
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 cups full cream milk
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla essence
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Method

  1. 1

    Butter the bread slices and spread a generous layer of apricot jam on one side.

  2. 2

    Cut the bread into triangles and layer them jam-side up in a greased baking dish.

  3. 3

    In a bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla essence together until well combined.

  4. 4

    Pour the custard mixture over the bread and let it soak for 20 minutes.

  5. 5

    Sprinkle with cinnamon and bake at 180C for 35 minutes until the top is golden and the custard is set.

Top Tips

  • Use day-old bread to ensure it absorbs the custard without falling apart|Serve warm with a side of custard or vanilla ice cream|You can add a handful of raisins between layers for extra texture

Serve with

Traditionally paired with other South African classics:

Community Kitchen

Every South African family has their own version of this recipe — small tweaks passed down through generations. Do you make yours differently? Share your family variation with the community.

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