Scheiterhaufen: Austria’s Beloved Bread Pudding

Scheiterhaufen is a cherished dessert from Austria. It embodies the rich culinary traditions and love for comforting, home-cooked dishes that Austrians hold dear. Often described as an Austrian bread pudding, Scheiterhaufen is much more than just a clever way to use up stale bread. It combines simple, wholesome ingredients to create a warm, comforting dessert that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

What Makes Scheiterhaufen Unique?

This dessert features layers of stale bread or brioche, tart apples, juicy raisins, and a rich custard flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. The result is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Scheiterhaufen is a popular choice for family gatherings, cozy dinners, and festive occasions. The name “Scheiterhaufen,” which means “pyre” in German, hints at its distinctive, piled-up appearance, resembling a stack of wood ready for a bonfire.

Scheiterhaufen stands out among bread puddings due to its versatility. While apples and raisins are the traditional ingredients, many variations exist. Some include fruits like pears or cherries, nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts, or even a splash of rum. This adaptability allows each version of Scheiterhaufen to have a personal touch, showcasing the culinary creativity in Austrian kitchens.

A Simple and Comforting Dessert

The simplicity and ease of preparation also contribute to Scheiterhaufen’s popularity. It requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for home cooks who want to create something special quickly. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce food waste by using leftover bread that might otherwise go uneaten.

Scheiterhaufen is traditionally served warm, straight from the oven, with a dusting of powdered sugar. It pairs well with whipped cream, vanilla sauce, or vanilla ice cream, adding to its comforting appeal. The aroma of baked apples and cinnamon fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist and bringing everyone together to enjoy this classic treat.

Whether you’re new to Austrian cuisine or exploring a familiar comfort food, Scheiterhaufen is a wonderful choice. Its rich flavors, simplicity, and heartwarming qualities have kept it a timeless favorite in Austrian households.

Adding Scheiterhaufen to your dessert menu allows you to explore a piece of Austrian culinary heritage. It also lets you enjoy the comfort and joy of every delicious bite. Perfect for autumn evenings, winter dinners, or any time you crave a sweet, hearty treat, Scheiterhaufen is sure to become a beloved part of your culinary adventures.

Austrian Scheiterhaufen

Preparation Time 15 mins Cooking Time 40 mins Resting Period 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Beginner Temperature: 180  °C Servings: 6 Calorie: 250 Best Time: Fall

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Author: daurora Cooking Method: Baking Cuisine: Austria, Europe Category: Desserts Features of the Recipe: Baked Dairy Nut Free

Instruction

Scheiterhaufen is a delightful Austrian dessert, perfect for using up leftover bread. This comforting bread pudding combines layers of stale bread or brioche with sweet apple slices, juicy raisins, and a creamy custard infused with cinnamon and vanilla. Baked until golden and slightly crispy on top, Scheiterhaufen is a warm, satisfying treat that's easy to prepare and loved by all ages. Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla sauce for a classic, comforting dessert that brings the taste of Austria to your table. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy treat on a cool day!

Ingredients

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• 
  500 g stale bread or brioche (sliced)

• 
  500 ml milk (2 cups)

• 
  3 large eggs

• 
  100 g granulated sugar (1/2 cup)

• 
  1 tsp vanilla extract

• 
  1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 
  100 g raisins (or sultanas)

• 
  3 large apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)

• 
  50 g butter (melted)

• 
  1 lemonzest

• 
  powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Cut the stale bread or brioche into slices or cubes. If the bread is fresh, dry it in the oven for a few minutes until slightly crispy.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest until well combined.
4. Arrange a layer of bread slices in the greased baking dish, then add a layer of apple slices and raisins. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of bread on top.
5. Pour the milk mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Press down lightly to ensure everything is well coated.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the top layer.
7. Bake in the oven for about 40-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
8. Let the Scheiterhaufen cool for a few minutes, then dust with powdered sugar.
9. Serve warm, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla sauce.
10. Scheiterhaufen is ready. Guten Appetit!

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