Bread and butter pudding is a quintessential British dessert, combining simple ingredients like stale bread, butter, sugar, and custard to create a dish that’s both comforting and rich. While it’s a traditional home-cooked favorite, several eateries across England have elevated this humble dessert into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic version or something with a modern twist, England is home to many outstanding places to indulge in this beloved pudding.
Here’s a guide to five incredible spots where you can taste some of the best bread and butter puddings in the country.
1. Rules Restaurant – London
Rules, London’s oldest restaurant, has a well-earned reputation for classic British cuisine, and their bread and butter pudding is no exception. Situated in Covent Garden, Rules has been serving traditional British fare since 1798 and has a historical charm that enhances the dining experience.
The pudding here stays true to its roots, featuring layers of buttery bread and a rich custard with plump raisins and a crispy golden top. The use of traditional ingredients and time-honored techniques gives this dessert a truly authentic taste.
Why It’s Special:
- Rich, indulgent custard with perfectly caramelized edges
- Served in a historic setting, adding to the nostalgia
- Traditional flavor profile with a classic British touch
Pro Tip:
Book a table in advance, as Rules is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Pair the pudding with their homemade vanilla custard or a glass of Madeira wine for the ultimate British dessert experience.
2. Bettys Café Tea Rooms – York
Bettys is an iconic establishment in York known for its elegant afternoon teas and traditional British desserts. While their scones and cakes are well-loved, their bread and butter pudding has earned a reputation for being one of the best in the region.
Bettys’ version of the pudding uses their own freshly baked artisan bread, ensuring a unique texture and flavor. Topped with a generous layer of custard and a hint of nutmeg, it’s soft on the inside but perfectly caramelized on the top. Their attention to detail and high-quality ingredients make this dessert a must-try.
Why It’s Special:
- Uses artisan bread made fresh in-house
- Elegant presentation with a luxurious custard
- A touch of nutmeg and cinnamon enhances the flavors
Pro Tip:
Visit during afternoon tea for the full Bettys experience, where the pudding is served with fresh cream or ice cream. Be prepared for a wait, as Bettys is often crowded, but it’s well worth the patience.
3. The Wolseley – London
Located in the heart of Piccadilly, The Wolseley is famous for its upscale dining and classic British dishes. Their take on bread and butter pudding has won praise for being one of the finest in London. The dessert is known for its rich, buttery layers and perfectly crispy top, thanks to its use of brioche bread instead of traditional white bread.
The Wolseley’s version comes soaked in a vanilla and cinnamon custard, offering a sophisticated take on the classic pudding. Served warm, this pudding is the perfect ending to a meal at one of London’s most stylish restaurants.
Why It’s Special:
- Made with brioche bread for added richness
- Served with a side of creamy vanilla custard
- Elegant and chic atmosphere in one of London’s top restaurants
Pro Tip:
The Wolseley is renowned for its full English breakfast, so why not make a reservation for a morning meal and end it with a helping of this incredible dessert? You won’t regret it.
4. The Pudding Club – Mickleton
If you’re a true pudding enthusiast, then a trip to The Pudding Club in Mickleton, Gloucestershire is a must. This quirky venue is entirely dedicated to celebrating traditional British puddings, and their bread and butter pudding is a shining example of their passion for the dessert.
At The Pudding Club, the bread and butter pudding is made with thick slices of buttery bread soaked in rich custard. They often add dried fruits, like apricots or sultanas, to give the pudding extra flavor and texture. What makes this experience unique is the themed pudding nights, where guests can sample several traditional British puddings in one sitting.
Why It’s Special:
- A dedicated pudding institution serving traditional desserts
- Themed nights where pudding takes center stage
- Generous portions and a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere
Pro Tip:
Join the Pudding Club’s famous events, where you can indulge in a six-course pudding menu, including the bread and butter pudding, along with other classics like sticky toffee pudding and treacle tart.
5. The Ivy – Cambridge
Part of the iconic Ivy Collection, The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience with a focus on modern British cuisine. Their bread and butter pudding, while traditional at heart, incorporates a few modern twists that make it stand out.
The Ivy uses croissants instead of the usual bread, giving the pudding a flakier, lighter texture. Combined with a creamy vanilla custard and a dash of orange zest, the result is a beautifully balanced dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The top is caramelized to perfection, adding a delightful crunch to the soft layers underneath.
Why It’s Special:
- Made with croissants for an airy, buttery twist
- Subtle hints of orange zest elevate the flavor
- A chic, modern dining setting in the heart of Cambridge
Pro Tip:
Enjoy this pudding as part of their pre-theatre menu if you’re attending a show nearby. Pair it with one of The Ivy’s signature cocktails for an unforgettable dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bread and Butter Pudding in England
Q: What makes a good bread and butter pudding?
A: A great bread and butter pudding is all about the balance between soft, moist layers of bread and a crispy, golden top. The bread should be buttery, the custard rich and creamy, and the dessert should have a slight crunch on top from caramelization.
Q: Can I find gluten-free bread and butter pudding?
A: Yes, many modern restaurants and cafes offer gluten-free versions of bread and butter pudding. Look for spots that offer dietary-friendly menus, like The Greenhouse Café in Brighton, where gluten-free and vegan puddings are available.
Q: What’s the difference between traditional and modern bread and butter puddings?
A: Traditional bread and butter pudding uses simple white bread and a classic custard mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar. Modern versions often incorporate richer bread like brioche or croissants, as well as additional flavors like chocolate, liqueurs, or exotic spices for a twist.
Q: How do I make my own bread and butter pudding at home?
A: It’s simple! Layer slices of buttered bread in a dish, sprinkle with sugar and dried fruits, then pour a custard mixture made from eggs, milk, and cream over the top. Let the bread soak in the custard for 15-20 minutes before baking in a preheated oven until the top is golden and crispy.
From classic British institutions like Rules and Bettys to modern interpretations at The Ivy, these locations offer some of the finest bread and butter puddings in England. Whether you prefer a traditional take or something with a twist, there’s a perfect pudding waiting for you to discover!
