Step 1: Prepare the Custard Milk

In a saucepan, add 1 litre of full-fat milk and 5 tbsp of sugar. Stir to combine and begin heating over a medium flame.

Step 2: Create Custard Slurry

In a separate small bowl, take 3 tsp of custard powder and add a small amount of milk. Mix well to create a smooth, lump-free mixture.

Step 3: Thicken the Milk

Pour the custard slurry into the warm milk in the saucepan, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. It should have a thin, pourable consistency. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a measuring jug, combine 200 ml of fresh cream, 200 ml of condensed milk, and a few drops of vanilla essence. Whisk thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Toast the Bread

Trim the crusts from the white bread slices. Heat some ghee in a pan and lightly toast the bread slices on both sides until golden. Let them cool down.

Step 6: Assemble the First Layers

Arrange a single layer of toasted bread in a glass baking dish. Pour a portion of the custard milk over the bread to soak it. Then, pour a portion of the un-whipped cream mixture over the top. Sprinkle with chopped nuts.

Step 7: Add the Second Bread Layer

Place another layer of toasted bread slices on top of the nuts.

Step 8: Add Remaining Custard

Pour the rest of the custard milk over the second layer of bread, ensuring it is fully soaked.

Step 9: Prepare the Whipped Topping

Take the remaining cream and condensed milk mixture and whip it with an electric mixer until it becomes thick and forms soft peaks.

Step 10: Final Assembly and Garnish

Pour the whipped cream mixture over the top layer of the dessert and spread it evenly. Garnish with a generous amount of chopped nuts and saffron strands.

Step 11: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, or until it is completely set. Cut into portions and serve chilled.

• Use full-fat milk for a richer custard.

• Toast the bread with ghee until just lightly golden to prevent it from becoming too hard.

• Allow the dessert to chill for at least 2 hours for the flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly.

• Add a layer of sliced bananas or dates between the bread layers.

• Infuse the milk with cardamom pods for extra flavor.