Few desserts capture the warmth and nostalgia of a homemade old-fashioned bread pudding. This simple yet delicious treat transforms stale bread into a rich, custardy dish infused with cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg.
Whether served as a comforting dessert or a sweet breakfast indulgence, this classic recipe delivers cozy flavors with every bite. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create the perfect bread pudding.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bread pudding is the ultimate way to reduce food waste while creating a heartwarming dish. Its rich, custard-soaked bread bakes into a soft and creamy texture with a slightly crisp top. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, this dessert is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Add dried fruit, nuts, or a decadent sauce to make it even more special.
Another reason to love bread pudding is its versatility. While it’s a fantastic dessert, it can also be served as a special breakfast or brunch item. The warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, paired with the creamy texture, makes it the perfect comfort food for cold mornings. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover bread instead of letting it go to waste.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
- 4 cups stale bread, cubed
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Make A Classic Vanilla Sauce
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons warm water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Bread
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a baking dish with butter. Place the cubed bread into the dish and spread it evenly. If using raisins or nuts, sprinkle them over the bread to ensure even distribution.
The type of bread used can make a difference in the texture of the pudding. Brioche, challah, or French bread work particularly well because of their slightly dense and absorbent texture. If you prefer a lighter pudding, you can use white sandwich bread. Just make sure it’s slightly stale so it absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy.
Making the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Once combined, pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until fully incorporated.
Drizzle the melted butter into the mixture for added richness.
If you want an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture. This enhances the warmth of the spices and brings out the vanilla notes beautifully.
You can also experiment with different sweeteners, such as brown sugar or maple syrup, to achieve a richer taste.
Soaking and Baking the Bread
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid. Allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Bake for about 45–50 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the pudding is set but slightly soft in the center.
Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
To check for doneness, insert a knife in the center — if it comes out mostly clean but slightly moist, the pudding is ready. Avoid overbaking, as it can dry out the pudding and make it lose its creamy texture.
Making the Vanilla Sauce
While the pudding bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with powdered sugar. Slowly add the warm butter, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
Stir in vanilla extract and warm water, continuing to whisk until smooth. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly before drizzling over the warm bread pudding.
For a richer variation, swap the vanilla sauce with caramel sauce or a bourbon-infused glaze. If you prefer a lighter option, serve it with a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
Tips for the Best Bread Pudding
Using stale bread helps absorb the custard mixture better, ensuring a rich and creamy texture. If fresh bread is all you have, lightly toast the cubes in the oven for a few minutes.
For an extra indulgent twist, swap raisins for chocolate chips or top the pudding with caramel sauce. To make this dessert ahead of time, assemble it in the baking dish and refrigerate overnight before baking.
Another great tip is to allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. This helps the custard set and makes it easier to scoop without falling apart.
If you’re making a large batch, leftovers store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve bread pudding warm with a drizzle of vanilla sauce, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream.
For a more festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top or add a splash of bourbon to the sauce for a boozy kick. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, this dessert is always a comforting delight.
For breakfast, pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm, cinnamon-spiced pudding is a great companion to a morning beverage. If serving at a holiday gathering, you can present it with a side of fresh berries or spiced nuts for a sophisticated touch.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about bread pudding is its adaptability. If you’re looking to mix things up, try some of these delicious variations:
- Chocolate Bread Pudding: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips and swap half the sugar for brown sugar for a richer, more decadent dessert.
- Fruit-Infused Pudding: Mix in chopped apples, bananas, or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
- Savory Bread Pudding: Skip the sugar and spices and add cheese, sautéed onions, and herbs for a delicious brunch dish.
By experimenting with different ingredients, you can make this dish your own and keep it exciting every time you bake it.
This old-fashioned bread pudding brings warmth and nostalgia to any occasion. With its rich custard, soft bread, and irresistible vanilla sauce, this recipe guarantees a satisfying and memorable treat every time.
