Desserts > American Desserts > Brown Betties

Brown Betty with Dates and Pistachios Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 cups of sliced bread (preferably stale)
- 1 cup of pitted and chopped dates
- 1 cup of chopped pistachios
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced bread, chopped dates, and chopped pistachios.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

4. Pour the butter mixture over the bread mixture and toss until the bread is coated evenly.

5. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and press down gently to pack it in.

6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

7. Let the Brown Betty cool for 10 minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Total fat: 18g
Saturated fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 260mg
Total carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary fiber: 4g
Sugars: 24g
Protein: 6g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of bread for this recipe, but it is best to use stale bread.
- You can substitute the dates with raisins or dried cranberries.
- You can substitute the pistachios with almonds or walnuts.
- You can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter, but adjust the salt accordingly.

Variations:
- Add a layer of sliced apples or pears between the bread mixture for a fruity twist.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the butter mixture for a citrusy flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to use stale bread for this recipe, as fresh bread will become too soggy.
- You can prepare the Brown Betty ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Serve the Brown Betty with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the Brown Betty in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the Brown Betty in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Pairings:
Pair the Brown Betty with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve the Brown Betty with a side of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the top of the Brown Betty is not crispy enough, broil it for a few minutes until golden brown.
- If the Brown Betty is too dry, add a splash of milk to the butter mixture before pouring it over the bread mixture.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Food history:
Brown Betty is a classic American dessert that dates back to the colonial era. It is typically made with layers of fruit and bread crumbs, and was a popular dessert during the Great Depression due to its affordability.

Flavor profiles:
The Brown Betty with Dates and Pistachios has a sweet and nutty flavor profile with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the Brown Betty warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Caramelized, Fruity, Spiced