If you have been searching for a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further than The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe. This classic treat is a beautiful harmony of crispy, buttery bread soaked in a rich custard infused with cinnamon and vanilla. Each bite melts in your mouth, carrying the nostalgic flavors of homemade goodness that everyone will adore. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or paired with luscious vanilla sauce, this recipe is sure to become your go-to dessert for cozy nights and special gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe lies in its simplicity and the care taken with each ingredient. Every element plays a vital role—from the texture brought by stale bread to the creamy custard that soaks it all in, and the subtle sweetness and spice that make it irresistible.
- 6 slices stale bread: Stale bread soaks up the custard perfectly without becoming mushy.
- 3 tablespoons of butter (1 Tablespoon + 2 Tablespoons): Adds richness and helps crisp up the bread’s edges beautifully.
- 4 beaten eggs: Creates the custard base that binds everything together with creaminess.
- 2 cups milk: Moisturizes the bread and blends the flavors seamlessly.
- 3/4 cup white sugar: Sweetens the pudding just right without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the custard flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds aromatic spice that complements the vanilla perfectly.
- Raisins (optional): Provides bursts of chewy sweetness, a traditional touch if you enjoy them.
- Vanilla sauce (get my vanilla sauce recipe): A luscious accompaniment that elevates every serving.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: For a caramelized flavor in the buttery topping.
How to Make The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use 1 tablespoon of butter to generously coat the inside of an 8-inch square baking dish. This buttery layer not only prevents sticking but also gives the crust a delightful golden crispiness.
Step 2: Add the Bread
Rather than crumbs, break the stale bread into larger chunks and arrange them in the buttered baking dish. This helps maintain texture and allows each piece to soak up the custard beautifully.
Step 3: Butter the Bread
Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it evenly over the bread pieces. This extra butter adds a rich layer of flavor and helps crisp the pudding’s edges while baking.
Step 4: Mix the Custard
In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs first until smooth. Then, add the milk, white sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir everything well to meld the flavors. If you love raisins, fold them in now for those sweet surprises.
Step 5: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the custard mixture slowly over the bread chunks in the dish. Make sure each piece is nicely coated by gently pressing down with a spoon if needed. This ensures every bite will be decadently soaked.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top springs back lightly to the touch, signaling a perfectly set custard with just enough wobble beneath for creaminess.
How to Serve The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
To truly celebrate The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe, add a drizzle of warm vanilla sauce—it’s the ultimate finishing touch. A sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream can add beautiful contrast and an extra layer of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This bread pudding shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of lightly spiced chai tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a brunch twist, serve alongside crispy bacon or fresh fruit salad for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve individual portions in ramekins and top each with a caramelized sugar crust or toasted nuts. Or turn it into a bread pudding trifle layered with custard and berries in a glass, adding a visual wow factor perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
Bread pudding freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions or the whole dish tightly with foil and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat bread pudding in a 350-degree oven for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings in 30-second intervals to avoid drying out. Finish with a quick sauce drizzle for freshness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
While stale bread works best for soaking up the custard without falling apart, you can use fresh bread—just toast it lightly beforehand to dry it out for better texture.
Is it okay to use whole milk or should I use cream?
Whole milk works perfectly in this recipe, providing creaminess without being too heavy. You can substitute heavy cream or half-and-half for an even richer pudding if you prefer.
Can I add other mix-ins besides raisins?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even fresh fruit chunks can all be fantastic additions to personalize your bread pudding.
How can I make the bread pudding dairy-free?
Use dairy-free milk alternatives like almond or oat milk and substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine to keep the dish creamy and flavorful without dairy.
What’s the best way to make vanilla sauce?
A simple vanilla sauce involves gently heating sugar, milk, and egg yolks with vanilla extract until thickened gently. It’s the perfect warm topping that beautifully complements The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warm serving of The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe, a timeless dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. Whether you’re serving it for family dinners or special occasions, this bread pudding offers pure comfort and sweet satisfaction. Give it a try and watch it become a household favorite you’ll love sharing over and over again.
Print
The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic bread pudding recipe is a comforting and delicious dessert that transforms stale bread into a moist, flavorful treat. With a rich custard base flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, it’s baked to perfection and topped with an optional vanilla sauce for extra indulgence. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it promises a warm, sweet finish to your meal.
Ingredients
Bread Pudding
- 6 slices stale bread
- 3 tablespoons butter (1 Tablespoon + 2 Tablespoons)
- 4 beaten eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Raisins (optional)
Vanilla Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use 1 tablespoon of butter to thoroughly coat the inside of an 8-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Arrange Bread: Break the stale bread into larger pieces and place them evenly in the buttered baking dish, forming the base for your pudding.
- Butter the Bread: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it evenly over the bread pieces to add richness and moisture.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a bowl, beat the eggs first, then mix in the milk, white sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and optional raisins until the ingredients are well combined.
- Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture over the bread pieces in the baking dish, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and saturated with the custard.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and springs back when lightly touched with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
Notes
- Use stale bread for best texture; slightly dried bread soaks up the custard without becoming too mushy.
- Raisins are optional but add a nice texture and sweetness.
- For a richer pudding, substitute heavy cream for part or all of the milk.
- The vanilla sauce can be warmed and served over the pudding to enhance flavor.
- Ensure the eggs are well beaten for a smooth custard texture.
