Bread Pudding Recipe

There’s something really special about bread pudding. Imagine sinking your fork into a warm, sweet, and custardy dessert, with the rich aroma of cinnamon dancing in the air. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for chilly evenings or a family gathering. With simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, you can create this delicious treat right at home. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bread, turning it into something truly delightful. If you’ve never made bread pudding before, get ready to be wowed by how easy and tasty it is!

Why You’ll Love Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is not only a classic dessert but also a versatile one. You can dress it up or down, and it practically begs to be personalized! The warm, comforting flavors invite you to dive in for seconds, while its soft and creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the slight crispness on top. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack any time of day. When you make bread pudding, you’re not just baking; you’re creating memories.

• Easy to Make: Just mix, pour, and bake!
• Pantry-Friendly: Most ingredients are common household staples.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and warm it up when you’re ready to indulge.
• Deliciously Versatile: Great served warm, cold, or at room temperature.
• Customizable: Add your favorite fruits, spices, or nuts.
• Unique Texture: Soft and creamy with a slight crisp top.
• Perfect for Leftovers: A fantastic way to give stale bread new life!

4 cups of bread, cubed, 2 cups of milk, 4 eggs, 3/4 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 cup of raisins or other dried fruit (optional), Butter for greasing the baking dish for Bread Pudding

• Bread: Creates the base of the pudding, adding texture and absorbs the custard.
• Milk: Provides creaminess and richness to the mixture.
• Eggs: Acts as a binder, giving the pudding a fluffy structure.
• Sugar: Sweetens the dish, making it dessert-worthy.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
• Cinnamon: Gives a cozy, aromatic spice that perfectly complements the sweetness.
• Raisins/Dried Fruit (Optional): Adds extra sweetness and chewy texture.
• Butter: Ensures the pudding bakes to a beautiful golden brown and adds flavor.

Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.

How to Make Bread Pudding

Phase 1 – Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease your baking dish with butter.
3. Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
4. If using, toss in the raisins or dried fruit with the bread cubes.

Phase 2 – Cook / Assemble

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to soak them evenly.
3. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the custard.
4. Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set.

Phase 3 – Serve

1. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm, plain or topped with whipped cream, ice cream, or your favorite sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• Stale Bread Works Best: The older the bread, the better it absorbs the custard without falling apart.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices to mix things up!
• Cover It: If the top is browning too fast, cover it loosely with foil to prevent it from burning.
• Don’t Rush the Soaking: Allowing the bread to soak ensures each bite is perfectly moist.
• Try a Water Bath: Baking in a water bath can help control the temperature for a creamier texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Custard: This can create a tough texture. Gently mix until everything is just combined to keep it light and fluffy.

Not Soaking Long Enough: If the bread doesn’t soak long enough, it may end up dry. Make sure to let it sit just enough time.

Baking at Too High a Temperature: This can cause uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended temperature for the best results.

Recipe Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free bread.
• Spiced Variation: Add nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips alongside or instead of dried fruit.
• Fruit-Forward: Use fresh berries or apples for a fresher twist.

How to Serve Bread Pudding

• Toppings: Consider serving with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Best Pairings: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a comforting experience.
• Garnishes: A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dash of cinnamon can elevate the presentation.

Make Ahead & Storage

Can I Meal Prep This?

Yes, you can! Prepare it a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze bread pudding for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture might change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, use the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute or bake in the oven at 350°F (about 10-15 minutes) until warmed through. Stir halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread? Yes! Feel free to experiment with brioche, French bread, or even croissants for unique flavors.

Is it okay to leave out the raisins? Absolutely! You can skip them or substitute with any other dried fruit you prefer.

Can I make this without eggs? You can use a plant-based egg substitute for a similar effect, but the texture may vary.

How do I know when it’s done? The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Ready to indulge in a delicious bread pudding recipe? It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is perfect for any occasion. Gather your ingredients and create a warm, comforting dessert the whole family will love!

Bread Pudding

A warm, comforting dessert made from leftover bread, milk, and eggs, flavored with vanilla and cinnamon.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed bread Use stale bread for better absorption.
• 2 cups milk Can substitute with almond or coconut milk for dairy-free.
• 4 large eggs Acts as a binder for the pudding.
• 3/4 cup sugar Sweetens the pudding.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warmth to the flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Gives a cozy aroma.
• 1/2 cup raisins or other dried fruit Optional, adds sweetness and texture.
• Butter For greasing the baking dish.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease your baking dish with butter.
3. Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
4. If using, toss in the raisins or dried fruit with the bread cubes.

Cooking

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to soak them evenly.
3. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the custard.
4. Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set.

Serving

1. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm, plain or topped with whipped cream, ice cream, or your favorite sauce.

Notes

For best results, use stale bread and don’t rush the soaking time. You can also cover the pudding with foil if the top browns too quickly.