Sweet bread pudding

Cozonac Pudding: A Nostalgic Dessert with a Sweet Flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8

Who doesn’t love a dessert that brings back memories of special moments spent with loved ones? Cozonac pudding is such a dish, a true feast for the senses that transforms leftover cozonac into a delicacy full of flavor and taste. This simple and quick recipe proves to be not only an ingenious way to utilize leftover cozonac but also an opportunity to indulge your taste buds with a combination of textures and aromas.

Ingredients:

For the pudding:
- 1 cozonac (with poppy seeds, plain, Turkish delight, or walnuts)
- 3 eggs
- 350 ml milk
- Rum or vanilla essence (to taste)
- Sugar (to taste)
- Grated orange peel (about a teaspoon)
- A little butter (for greasing the pan)

For the caramel sauce:
- 150 g sugar
- 100 ml milk
- 1 tablespoon flour

Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Cozonac
Start by slicing the cozonac into pieces about 1-2 cm thick. This will allow the slices to absorb the flavored milk well, transforming into a soft and tasty delight. If you use cozonac with poppy seeds or walnuts, you will add an extra note of flavor that will delight everyone.

Step 2: Soaking the Cozonac Slices
Heat 50 ml of milk in a small saucepan, adding sugar to taste. The milk should not boil, just be warm enough to dissolve the sugar. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the milk cool slightly. Then, soak each slice of cozonac in the sweetened milk, being careful not to lose its fluffy texture. Arrange the slices in a buttered pan, placing them nicely to create an attractive appearance.

Step 3: Preparing the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk the 3 eggs with a whisk or mixer until frothy. Add 300 ml of milk, the rum or vanilla essence, and the grated orange peel. Mix all the ingredients well until you achieve a smooth composition. This mixture will give your pudding a fresh and citrusy flavor.

Step 4: Assembling the Pudding
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cozonac slices in the pan. Make sure each slice is well covered with the delicious liquid. Let the pudding rest for 10-15 minutes, so the cozonac slices absorb as much of the mixture as possible. Then, place the pan in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 45 minutes. The pudding is ready when it becomes golden and firm to the touch.

Step 5: Preparing the Caramel Sauce
While the pudding is baking, you can prepare the caramel sauce. In a pan, caramelize 150 g of sugar over low heat. Stir constantly to avoid burning. After 2-3 minutes, when the sugar turns golden, carefully add the 100 ml of milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of flour. Continue to stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. It is important not to leave the sugar on the heat too long, as it can become bitter.

Step 6: Serving the Pudding
Once the cozonac pudding has cooled slightly, cut it into portions and serve it warm or at room temperature, with the caramel sauce on top. This sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that will make each bite irresistible.

Practical Tips:
- Types of Cozonac: You can experiment with various types of cozonac. A cozonac with Turkish delight will provide a sweet and aromatic note, while one with poppy seeds will add a unique texture.
- Sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your desired sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet pudding, reduce the amount of sugar in the egg mixture.
- Caramel Sauce: This sauce is versatile and can also be used for other desserts, such as ice cream or pancakes. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for later use.

Delicious Variations:
- Fruit Pudding: Add some seasonal fruit pieces between the cozonac slices for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.
- Nut Pudding: You can add chopped nuts to the egg mixture for a crunchy texture.

Nutritional Benefits:
Cozonac pudding is a good source of protein due to the eggs and provides calcium from the milk. Cozonac contains carbohydrates that give you energy, and the orange peel adds a dose of vitamin C.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use another type of milk? Yes, you can use plant-based milk (almond, coconut, or soy) for a lactose-free version.
- How can I store the pudding? The pudding keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start your culinary adventure! Cozonac pudding is more than just a simple dessert; it’s a way to create memories and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!