25+ Decadent South African Bread Pudding Recipes for Every Sweet Tooth

South African cuisine is known for its rich flavors, fusion of cultures, and creative use of local ingredients.

Among its many beloved desserts, bread pudding holds a special place, combining comfort, sweetness, and endless possibilities for customization.

In this collection of over 25 South African-inspired bread pudding recipes, you’ll find everything from classic flavors to modern twists, each capturing the essence of South Africa’s culinary heritage.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Cape Malay spices, a lover of indulgent desserts with Amarula liqueur, or intrigued by the unique flavors of rooibos and koeksisters, there’s something here for every taste.

South African bread puddings often feature local ingredients like apricots, ginger, and marula fruit, adding a distinctive flavor that sets them apart from other bread puddings around the world.

These recipes are perfect for warm family gatherings, special celebrations, or even as a delightful treat on a cozy evening.

So, dive into this flavorful journey across South African-inspired bread puddings and discover new favorites.

These recipes showcase the heart and soul of South African desserts, bringing together comforting ingredients, unique spices, and a touch of indulgence in every bite.

From syrup-soaked treats to creamy custard delights, South African bread puddings are a sweet adventure you won’t want to miss!

25+ Decadent South African Bread Pudding Recipes for Every Sweet Tooth

Bread pudding has become a beloved dessert in South Africa, with its versatility allowing for countless flavor combinations and cultural influences.

Through these 25+ recipes, you can experience the warmth and diversity of South African cuisine right in your kitchen.

From the sweet syrupy goodness of koeksister-inspired puddings to the earthy richness of rooibos and the fruity sweetness of apricots, each recipe offers a taste of South Africa’s vibrant heritage.

Trying these recipes is a wonderful way to explore new flavors, whether you’re an adventurous baker or someone looking for comforting, familiar tastes with a twist.

They’re also a beautiful way to share South African flavors with friends and family, transporting everyone to the rich culinary landscape of this beautiful country.

So, pick a recipe, gather your ingredients, and create a memorable dessert that’s as comforting as it is exciting.

Enjoy these South African bread puddings as you create new memories, and experience the unique flavors of a world-renowned cuisine in the sweetest way possible.

Malva Bread Pudding with Amarula Custard

Malva pudding, a traditional South African dessert, combines wonderfully with bread pudding to create this unique treat. Known for its rich, caramelized flavor and moist texture, malva bread pudding adds a modern twist with a hint of Amarula custard. This dessert captures the heart of South African flavors, blending the warmth of malva with the creaminess of Amarula liqueur. Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, this pudding is sure to impress with its decadent and comforting taste.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of day-old bread, cubed
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp apricot jam
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Amarula Custard:

• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup Amarula liqueur

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, apricot jam, eggs, vanilla extract, baking soda, and melted butter.
3. Add the bread cubes and mix gently until bread is soaked with the mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into the baking dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. For the custard, heat milk and cream in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar until smooth, then slowly add to the hot milk, stirring continuously.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Amarula. Serve warm over the bread pudding.

This Malva Bread Pudding with Amarula Custard is a blend of South African flavors that feels familiar yet new. The rich apricot notes from the malva and the creamy Amarula custard combine beautifully, creating a luxurious dessert with deep cultural roots. Each bite is a taste of South African tradition with a delightful modern twist, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Cape Malay Spiced Bread Pudding with Dried Fruit

Cape Malay cuisine is celebrated for its complex blend of spices, creating a unique taste experience. This Cape Malay Spiced Bread Pudding combines fragrant spices like cinnamon and cardamom with dried fruits, adding depth and sweetness. The result is a bread pudding that’s warm, aromatic, and full of comforting flavors. This dessert is ideal for those who enjoy the aromatic spice of Cape Malay cooking and is sure to make a memorable dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, apricots, currants)
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Soak the dried fruit in warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine milk, cream, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the bread cubes and soaked dried fruits to the mixture, stirring gently to coat.
5. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.

This Cape Malay Spiced Bread Pudding with Dried Fruit is a flavorful dessert that showcases the beautiful spices of Cape Malay cuisine. The subtle warmth of the spices paired with the sweetness of dried fruits creates a comforting yet exotic dessert. This bread pudding is perfect for bringing a touch of South African flavor to your dessert table.

Traditional South African Milk Tart Bread Pudding

Milk tart, or “melktert,” is a classic South African dessert known for its creamy, custard-like filling and warm cinnamon flavor. By combining the concept of milk tart with bread pudding, this recipe introduces a new version of a South African favorite. The end result is a creamy, custardy bread pudding infused with the familiar taste of milk tart, topped with cinnamon for a nostalgic twist. It’s an ideal dessert for milk tart lovers who want to try something a little different.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat. Let the bread soak for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the baking dish and sprinkle the top with cinnamon.
5. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

This Traditional South African Milk Tart Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert with a familiar, nostalgic flavor. By blending milk tart’s creamy texture with bread pudding’s warmth, this dessert pays homage to South African culinary traditions in a unique way. The cinnamon topping adds a lovely finish, making it a dessert that’s sure to bring joy and fond memories with every bite.

Koeksister Bread Pudding with Honey Glaze

Koeksisters are a beloved South African treat, known for their braided shape and deliciously sweet, sticky honey coating. This Koeksister Bread Pudding brings the flavors of this classic pastry to a comforting dessert, combining cinnamon, nutmeg, and a rich honey glaze. Perfectly sweet and spiced, this bread pudding is ideal for anyone who loves the taste of koeksisters but is looking for a unique twist on the traditional dessert.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Honey Glaze:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat.
4. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. For the glaze, heat honey, water, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until smooth. Drizzle over the bread pudding.

This Koeksister Bread Pudding with Honey Glaze captures the irresistible sweetness of koeksisters in a warm, comforting pudding form. The honey glaze brings a touch of sticky sweetness, while the cinnamon and nutmeg provide the perfect spice. It’s a delightful dessert that pays homage to a South African favorite.

South African Rooibos Bread Pudding with Orange Zest

Rooibos tea, a caffeine-free herbal tea unique to South Africa, is known for its earthy and slightly sweet flavor. This Rooibos Bread Pudding infuses the taste of rooibos tea into the custard, while the addition of orange zest brings a fresh citrus note. The combination creates a warm, aromatic bread pudding that’s both sophisticated and comforting, making it a great dessert for tea lovers or those looking to try something new and authentically South African.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup strong brewed rooibos tea (cooled)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• Zest of one orange
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together rooibos tea, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, orange zest, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and set.

The Rooibos Bread Pudding with Orange Zest is a fragrant and refreshing take on bread pudding, with rooibos tea adding an earthy depth and orange zest lending brightness. It’s a beautiful blend of flavors that showcases the versatility of rooibos, making it a distinctly South African dessert experience.

Amagwinya (Vetkoek) Bread Pudding with Spiced Syrup

Amagwinya, also known as vetkoek, is a popular South African fried dough often enjoyed with sweet or savory fillings. In this bread pudding, pieces of vetkoek are layered into a creamy custard and baked, then drizzled with a spiced syrup for a dessert that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside. It’s a creative way to enjoy the flavors of vetkoek as a dessert, offering a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed vetkoek or fried dough
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Spiced Syrup:

• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, allspice, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the vetkoek cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat.
4. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. For the syrup, heat sugar, water, honey, and cinnamon in a saucepan until dissolved and slightly thickened. Drizzle over the bread pudding.

Amagwinya Bread Pudding with Spiced Syrup combines the comforting textures of vetkoek with the sweet richness of bread pudding. The spiced syrup adds warmth and depth, transforming a beloved South African street food into a deliciously unique dessert. This pudding is a perfect way to enjoy vetkoek in a new, indulgent form.

Marula Fruit Bread Pudding with Coconut Cream

Marula fruit is native to Southern Africa and known for its unique sweet and tart flavor. This bread pudding combines the flavor of marula with coconut cream, creating a tropical, indulgent dessert. The coconut cream adds richness, while the marula fruit adds a hint of fruity acidity, resulting in a beautifully balanced pudding. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the exotic flavors of South Africa in a comforting, familiar dessert.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup marula fruit puree (or marula-flavored liqueur as an alternative)
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut

Coconut Cream:

• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together marula fruit puree (or liqueur), coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat. Let the bread soak for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the baking dish and sprinkle shredded coconut over the top.
5. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and set.
6. For the coconut cream, mix coconut milk, heavy cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar is dissolved, then serve warm over the bread pudding.

This Marula Fruit Bread Pudding with Coconut Cream offers a delightful taste of the tropics, with a rich, creamy base and hints of marula and coconut. It’s an indulgent dessert that’s both exotic and comforting, giving you a taste of South Africa’s unique fruits and flavors in every bite.

Amarula and Gingerbread Bread Pudding

Amarula, a creamy South African liqueur made from marula fruit, brings a unique flavor to this rich bread pudding. Paired with gingerbread spices, this dessert has warm, spiced notes that blend beautifully with the creamy Amarula. Perfect for the holiday season or any cozy evening, this pudding is as inviting as it is flavorful. It’s a South African twist on classic gingerbread, bringing warmth and sweetness to every bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed gingerbread or spiced bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup Amarula liqueur
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, Amarula, heavy cream, brown sugar, eggs, ground ginger, cinnamon, and melted butter.
3. Add the gingerbread cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.

The combination of Amarula and gingerbread creates a warm, comforting bread pudding that’s rich with South African flavors. The liqueur adds a smooth, fruity creaminess that pairs beautifully with the spice of the gingerbread, making this dessert a perfect choice for anyone wanting to bring a taste of South Africa to their holiday table.

Pumpkin and Rooibos Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Drizzle

This Pumpkin and Rooibos Bread Pudding is a unique take on classic pumpkin flavors, infused with South Africa’s famous rooibos tea. Rooibos adds an earthy, slightly sweet depth to the custard, while the pumpkin provides a creamy richness. Topped with a cinnamon drizzle, this pudding is a comforting, warmly spiced dessert that combines traditional South African ingredients with familiar fall flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup brewed rooibos tea, cooled
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Cinnamon Drizzle:

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp milk
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together rooibos tea, pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat, and let soak for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. For the cinnamon drizzle, mix powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth. Drizzle over the bread pudding before serving.

This Pumpkin and Rooibos Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Drizzle brings together the earthy flavors of rooibos and the creamy texture of pumpkin for a deliciously unique dessert. The cinnamon drizzle adds the perfect touch of sweetness, making this dessert comforting and distinctly South African. It’s an ideal choice for autumn or any time you want a taste of the rich, comforting flavors of South Africa.

Milk Tart Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Milk tart, or “melktert,” is a classic South African dessert known for its creamy, custard-like filling and sweet cinnamon topping. This Milk Tart Bread Pudding brings those beloved flavors into a cozy, easy-to-make dessert. With a creamy custard infused with vanilla and a cinnamon sugar crust, this bread pudding is a delightful homage to the milk tart, offering a comforting treat with a hint of nostalgia.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, and ground cinnamon.
3. Add the bread cubes to the custard mixture, stirring gently to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar topping.
5. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.

This Milk Tart Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Sugar Topping captures the essence of a traditional South African milk tart in a warm, comforting dessert. The creamy, cinnamon-spiced custard combined with the bread creates a wonderfully rich texture, making this pudding a delicious way to experience the flavors of a classic milk tart.

Biltong and Cheddar Savory Bread Pudding

Biltong, a popular South African dried meat similar to jerky, adds a savory twist to this unique bread pudding. Paired with sharp cheddar cheese and a flavorful custard, this savory bread pudding is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a hearty side dish. The rich flavors of the biltong and cheddar bring depth to the dish, making it an unforgettable South African-inspired treat.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped biltong (or beef jerky as a substitute)
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, eggs, and black pepper.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat, and fold in cheddar cheese, biltong, and green onions.
4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and set.

This Biltong and Cheddar Savory Bread Pudding is a fantastic way to incorporate the distinctive flavors of South African biltong into a warm, hearty dish. Perfect for those who enjoy savory bread puddings, this recipe offers a deliciously cheesy, protein-rich meal that’s full of South African character.

Cape Malay Spiced Bread Pudding with Apricot Glaze

The Cape Malay community in South Africa is known for its vibrant and aromatic cuisine, full of fragrant spices and sweet flavors. This bread pudding draws on those Cape Malay spices, like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, and is topped with a sweet apricot glaze that adds a hint of fruity tang. The result is a bread pudding with layers of warm, spicy, and sweet flavors, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped

Apricot Glaze:

• 1/4 cup apricot jam
• 1 tbsp water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and melted butter.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat, and fold in chopped dried apricots.
4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. For the apricot glaze, heat apricot jam and water in a small saucepan until melted. Brush over the bread pudding before serving.

The Cape Malay Spiced Bread Pudding with Apricot Glaze offers a deliciously fragrant and unique dessert with flavors inspired by South Africa’s Cape Malay cuisine. The blend of spices and sweet apricot glaze creates a warm, comforting treat that is perfect for anyone looking to explore the diverse flavors of South Africa’s culinary heritage.

Cape Brandy Bread Pudding with Raisins and Almonds

This Cape Brandy Bread Pudding is a decadent, boozy dessert inspired by South Africa’s love for brandy. Infused with rich raisins and crunchy almonds, this pudding has layers of flavor and texture. The brandy adds warmth, while the almonds provide a delightful contrast to the creamy custard. This pudding is perfect for special occasions and brings a taste of South Africa’s iconic brandy culture to your table.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup South African brandy
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Soak the raisins in brandy for 15–20 minutes to allow them to plump up.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
4. Add the bread cubes and soaked raisins (along with any remaining brandy) to the custard mixture, stirring gently to coat. Let sit for 10 minutes.
5. Pour into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle sliced almonds over the top.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.

The Cape Brandy Bread Pudding with Raisins and Almonds is a luxurious dessert that combines the richness of brandy with sweet raisins and the nutty crunch of almonds. This indulgent treat brings a taste of South African tradition to every spoonful, making it perfect for a cozy evening or a festive celebration.

Banana and Rooibos Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

This Banana and Rooibos Bread Pudding pairs the natural sweetness of bananas with the earthy, slightly sweet flavor of South African rooibos tea. Rooibos adds a unique depth to the custard, and a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the dessert with extra richness. Perfect for fans of banana desserts, this bread pudding combines familiar and exotic flavors for a memorable treat.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup brewed rooibos tea, cooled
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Caramel Sauce:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together rooibos tea, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, and melted butter.
3. Add the bread cubes and banana slices to the mixture, stirring gently to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. For the caramel sauce, melt sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and butter until smooth. Drizzle over the bread pudding before serving.

This Banana and Rooibos Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce offers a wonderful mix of familiar banana flavor and the earthy richness of rooibos. The caramel sauce adds a touch of sweetness that complements the rooibos-infused custard, making this pudding a warm, comforting, and distinctly South African-inspired dessert.

Pumpkin and Spice Malva Bread Pudding

Malva pudding is a beloved South African dessert known for its soft, spongy texture and sweet caramel flavor. This Pumpkin and Spice Malva Bread Pudding brings a seasonal twist to the classic, with the addition of pumpkin and warming spices. The result is a dessert that’s cozy, slightly spiced, and irresistibly rich, capturing the essence of malva pudding with a fall-inspired spin.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Malva Sauce:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture, stirring gently to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. For the malva sauce, combine sugar, heavy cream, butter, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar is dissolved and sauce is smooth.
6. Pour the malva sauce over the bread pudding before serving.

This Pumpkin and Spice Malva Bread Pudding is a delightful fusion of traditional malva pudding and autumn-inspired pumpkin flavors. The rich sauce and warm spices make this dessert comforting and flavorful, with each bite bringing a taste of South African warmth and holiday spirit.

Koeksister Bread Pudding with Sweet Spiced Syrup

Koeksisters are a South African delicacy — deep-fried dough pastries soaked in a sweet, spiced syrup. This Koeksister Bread Pudding brings that same indulgent flavor to a bread pudding, with hints of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. A warm syrup poured over the baked pudding captures the essence of koeksisters, making it a rich, sweet treat that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Syrup:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, and melted butter.
3. Add the bread cubes, stirring gently to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. For the syrup, combine sugar, water, cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, then let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Pour the syrup over the bread pudding while still warm before serving.

This Koeksister Bread Pudding is a unique take on a beloved South African pastry. The sweet syrup and aromatic spices bring a delightful richness, capturing the flavors of a traditional koeksister in a warm, comforting pudding. Ideal for a dessert that feels both exotic and homey.

Amarula Cream Bread Pudding with Chocolate Chips

Amarula, a creamy South African liqueur made from the marula fruit, adds a luxurious, fruity flavor to this bread pudding. Combined with chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence, this pudding is perfect for those who enjoy a rich, dessert-like treat. The Amarula’s unique taste elevates the custard, making each bite feel smooth and decadent.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Amarula liqueur
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, Amarula, sugar, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Add the bread cubes and chocolate chips, stirring gently to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and set.

This Amarula Cream Bread Pudding with Chocolate Chips is a luscious dessert that marries the unique flavors of South African Amarula with rich chocolate. The creamy custard and melted chocolate make it an indulgent treat, perfect for special occasions or as a sweet finale to a meal inspired by South African cuisine.

Ginger and Apricot Bread Pudding with Rooibos Glaze

This Ginger and Apricot Bread Pudding with Rooibos Glaze is a warm and spiced dessert that combines zesty ginger with the sweetness of dried apricots. The rooibos glaze adds a South African touch, lending a subtle tea flavor to the dish. This bread pudding is both comforting and refreshing, with a hint of natural sweetness that brings balance to the spices.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Rooibos Glaze:

• 1/2 cup strong brewed rooibos tea
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, ginger, and melted butter.
3. Add the bread cubes and chopped apricots, stirring gently to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. For the rooibos glaze, combine brewed tea, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly.
6. Drizzle the rooibos glaze over the warm bread pudding before serving.

The Ginger and Apricot Bread Pudding with Rooibos Glaze is a flavorful dessert that combines South African ingredients in a creative way. The spice of ginger, sweetness of apricots, and rooibos glaze create a well-balanced, comforting dish that’s perfect for enjoying with family and friends over a warm cup of tea.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!