Bread Pudding Recipe
Indulge in this delightful bread pudding recipe that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every bite! Imagine soft, buttery bread soaked in a rich, creamy custard, infused with hints of vanilla and cinnamon. This classic dessert is a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings. With simple ingredients like milk, eggs, and sugar, you can create a heavenly treat that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Serve it warm, drizzled with a luscious caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Bread Pudding Recipe
Equipment
- 1 baking dish Greased with butter or cooking spray
Ingredients
Bread
- day-old pieces Bread Use for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- 2 cups Milk Whole milk or a non-dairy alternative works well.
Wet Ingredients
- 4 large Eggs Binds the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup Sugar Adjust to your taste preference.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
Spices
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Adjust based on your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Use sparingly for depth of flavor.
Additions
- 2 tablespoons Butter Greases the baking dish; can be substituted with a non-dairy option.
- 1 cup Dried fruit Raisins or cranberries are great choices.
- 1/2 cup Nuts Walnuts or pecans work beautifully.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather your ingredients: bread, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and spices.
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and toasty.
- Cut or tear your bread into bite-sized pieces. Stale bread works best!
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
- Add the bread pieces to the wet mixture. Stir gently to coat every piece.
- Allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the bread soak up all that goodness!
- Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the soaked bread mixture into the baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite sauce or ice cream!
Why You’ll Love This Bread Pudding Recipe
- It’s a warm hug in dessert form, perfect for cozy nights.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up anytime.
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins like chocolate or nuts.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!
- A delightful way to use up stale bread and reduce waste.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Dessert |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 45 minutes |
| Total Time: | 1 hour |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian |
| Serves: | 6-8 |
| Best Served: | Warm with sauce |
Ingredients for Bread Pudding Recipe
- Bread – Use day-old bread for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Milk – Adds creaminess; whole milk or a non-dairy alternative works well.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and creates a custard-like base.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dish; adjust to your taste preference.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
- Nutmeg – A pinch adds a lovely depth of flavor; use sparingly.
- Butter – Greases the baking dish and adds richness; can be substituted with a non-dairy option.
- Dried fruit – Adds texture and sweetness; raisins or cranberries are great choices.
- Nuts – Provides crunch; walnuts or pecans work beautifully.
How to Make the Bread Pudding Recipe
Gather your ingredients: bread, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and spices.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and toasty.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Cut or tear your bread into bite-sized pieces. Stale bread works best!
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
Step 4: Combine Bread and Mixture
Add the bread pieces to the wet mixture. Stir gently to coat every piece.
Step 5: Let it Soak
Allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the bread soak up all that goodness!
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Pour and Spread
Pour the soaked bread mixture into the baking dish. Spread it evenly.
Step 8: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite sauce or ice cream!
Pro Tips for Making the Bread Pudding Recipe
- Use day-old bread for the best texture; it absorbs the custard beautifully.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, inviting flavor.
- Soak the bread mixture for at least 30 minutes to ensure even moisture.
- Try using almond milk or coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free option.
- Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch.
How to Serve Bread Pudding Recipe
Delight in these serving suggestions and pairing ideas for your bread pudding:
- Top with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a fruity twist.
- Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
- Serve warm with a side of custard sauce for a rich experience.
- Mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Try a scoop of yogurt on top for a tangy contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy your delicious bread pudding later!
Storing Leftovers
– Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before storing.
– Transfer to an airtight container.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Cover with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent drying out.
Freezing
– Cut the bread pudding into individual portions.
– Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap.
– Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
– Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
– Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
– Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
– For a softer texture, add a splash of milk before reheating.
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FAQs
What type of bread works best for bread pudding?
For the best texture and flavor, use day-old bread like brioche, challah, or French bread. These types absorb the custard mixture beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dessert.
Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bread pudding mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best results.
What can I use instead of eggs in the recipe?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture. Both options will help bind the ingredients while keeping the pudding moist.
How can I add flavor to my bread pudding?
Enhance your bread pudding by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips. These additions will elevate the flavor and make it even more delightful!