• prep: 30 min
• cook: 0 hr
• total: 30 min

servings:

Consider this recipe a double whammy. Not only do you end up with a dreamy, cheesy bread pudding, but you also get the recipe for an excellent loaf of Irish soda bread. The bread is so easy to make—there's no yeast involved—don't be surprised if you find yourself baking a loaf often. It makes excellent toast. Many Irish cheeses are now sold in our supermarkets, but you'll have good results with any sharp Cheddar. Buried in the recipe is a nifty trick: Adding a bit of Parmesan to the mixture helps amplify the flavor of the Cheddar.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
• 1 cup well-shaken buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 ounces sharp white Cheddar cheese, coarsely grated (1 1/4 cups)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
• 4 large eggs
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 8 (6-ounce) ramekins or a 2-quart shallow gratin or baking dish

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