This recipe transforms leftover Nutella babka into a luxurious bread pudding. Cubed babka is soaked in a simple custard of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, then baked until golden and set. It's a delightful dessert or brunch item, perfect for repurposing babka into a comforting, rich treat with the irresistible flavor of Nutella.
For an optimally rich texture, ensure your babka is slightly stale; this allows it to absorb the custard more effectively without becoming overly mushy. Adjust milk quantity as needed based on the babka's dryness. Whisk the custard ingredients gently to combine, avoiding excessive aeration. For a supremely creamy pudding, consider baking in a water bath. A pinch of flaky sea salt can beautifully balance the sweetness of the Nutella. To elevate presentation, dust with powdered sugar, add fresh berries, or serve with a dollop of crème fraîche or a warm Nutella drizzle. Avoid overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.