Few desserts feel as comforting as bread pudding. Warm, custardy, and filled with sweet hints of cinnamon and vanilla, this timeless treat transforms simple bread into something truly indulgent. Rooted in frugality, bread pudding dates back centuries as a clever way to use up leftover bread. Today, it’s enjoyed worldwide as a cozy dessert for holidays, gatherings, or even a sweet breakfast. If you’ve never made it before, you’ll be surprised at how simple and rewarding it is.
Why You’ll Love This Bread Pudding Recipe
- Simple ingredients – Made with everyday staples like bread, milk, eggs, and sugar.
- Customizable flavors – Add raisins, chocolate, or seasonal spices to make it your own.
- Perfect for holidays – A warm dessert that feels festive yet fuss-free.
- Budget-friendly – A great way to use up stale bread and reduce kitchen waste.
- Crowd-pleasing – Soft on the inside, golden on top, and always a hit at the table.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Bread Pudding
- Bread – The base of the recipe, soaking up the custard mixture to create a soft yet slightly chewy texture.
- Milk or cream – Provides richness and moisture for the custard base.
- Eggs – Bind the pudding together while giving it structure and creaminess.
- Sugar – Sweetens the mixture and helps caramelize the top.
- Spices (like cinnamon & nutmeg) – Infuse warmth and aroma into every bite.
- Dried fruit or chocolate – Adds bursts of sweetness and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Bread Pudding
- Prepare the bread – Cut day-old bread into cubes and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Mix the custard – Whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and spices until smooth.
- Combine – Pour the custard over the bread, pressing lightly so every piece soaks it up.
- Add extras – Sprinkle in raisins, dried fruit, or chocolate chips if desired.
- Rest – Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes so the bread absorbs the mixture fully.
- Bake – Bake in a preheated oven until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Serve – Enjoy warm, with a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of cream sauce.
Expert Tip: Use slightly stale bread. Fresh bread can turn mushy, while day-old bread holds its shape better.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For extra richness – Swap milk for heavy cream.
- Healthier version – Use whole-grain bread and reduce sugar.
- Flavor twist – Add a splash of rum, bourbon, or orange zest.
- Festive touch – Top with caramel sauce, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerate – Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds.
Similar Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed this cozy bread pudding, you’ll love trying a few more comforting bakes. For a pull-apart treat perfect for sharing, check out this sweet and sticky Monkey Bread. If you’re in the mood for something homemade and hearty, this Sourdough Bread Recipe is a rewarding project. And for a festive touch of spice, don’t miss these classic Gingerbread Cookies — perfect for the holiday season!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next day for fresh results.
What type of bread works best?
Brioche, challah, or French bread are excellent because of their sturdy texture and slight sweetness.
Do I have to add raisins?
Not at all. You can swap them for chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or leave them out entirely.
Can I serve bread pudding cold?
Yes, though it’s best enjoyed warm. Cold bread pudding has a firmer texture and works well with a drizzle of cream.
Bread pudding is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re making it for a holiday table, a cozy weekend dessert, or just to use up leftover bread, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and let me know how you enjoyed it — I’d love to hear your twist on this classic!
Bread Pudding
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old bread cubed (brioche, challah, or French bread)
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half for richness
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips optional
- 2 tbsp butter melted (for greasing and drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Place cubed bread into the prepared dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Pour custard mixture evenly over the bread. Press lightly so all bread soaks it up.
- Sprinkle raisins or chocolate chips on top, if using.
- Let sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Serve warm, with whipped cream, caramel, or a dusting of cinnamon.