Variations and Substitutions
Bread: While white bread is traditional, you can experiment with other types of bread, such as challah, brioche, or whole wheat. Each will impart a slightly different flavor and texture to the pudding.
Fruits: If you’re not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with other dried fruits like currants, chopped dried apricots, or even fresh berries.
Nuts: For added texture, consider mixing in a handful of chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts.
Spices: Adjust the spices to suit your taste. You can add cinnamon, allspice, or even a pinch of cloves for a spiced twist.
Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for the dairy, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The caramel sauce can be made with coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.