Name: Bread Pudding: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups cubed day-old bread – absorbs the custard for a soft texture; 2 tablespoons butter, melted – adds richness and helps with browning; 1/2 cup raisins – provide bursts of sweetness and chewiness; 4 eggs, beaten – give the custard structure and creaminess; 2 cups milk – creates a smooth custard base; 3/4 cup white sugar – adds sweetness and helps caramelize the top; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the dessert’s aroma; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds warmth and depth of flavor

Bread pudding is one of those timeless desserts that transforms simple, day-old bread into something extraordinary. With its rich custard base, warm spices, and tender texture, this bread pudding recipe captures everything you love about homemade comfort food. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert, a brunch treat, or a cozy midnight snack, this dish proves that simplicity can be utterly delicious.

Why This Bread Pudding Recipe Works So Well

This easy bread pudding recipe is a masterclass in flavor and texture balance. It combines buttery bread cubes soaked in creamy custard, baked until golden, and finished with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior. The magic of bread pudding lies in its versatility — it’s affordable, family-friendly, and can be made with ingredients you already have on hand. It’s no wonder this classic dish has stood the test of time.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Bread Pudding

• Bread: Slightly stale bread is ideal because it absorbs the custard without falling apart. Challah, brioche, or French bread all deliver great texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and enhances the aroma while helping the bread brown beautifully.
• Raisins: Provide bursts of natural sweetness and chewiness throughout the pudding.
• Eggs: The backbone of the custard, giving structure and a silky texture.
• Milk: Creates a creamy custard that binds the bread and ensures moistness.
• Sugar: Balances flavors and helps caramelize the top during baking.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note that complements the custard base.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds depth and coziness to the flavor profile.

Ingredient Swaps and Add-Ins

• Bread: Swap regular bread with croissants, cinnamon rolls, or panettone for a richer version.
• Milk: Use cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk for extra creaminess or a dairy-free option.
• Raisins: Replace with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chocolate chips.
• Flavor Boosters: A splash of rum, orange zest, or nutmeg can give your bread pudding a gourmet twist.

How to Make Bread Pudding Step-by-Step

Prepare the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into cubes and place them in a greased baking pan. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the bread to enhance flavor and crispness.
Add the Raisins: Sprinkle raisins (or your chosen dried fruit) across the bread cubes. This ensures even distribution throughout the pudding.
Mix the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well blended.
Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing lightly to help the bread absorb the liquid. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes before baking.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set but still soft in the center.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. It’s wonderful warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips for the Best Bread Pudding

• Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread can turn soggy, while slightly stale bread maintains a great texture.
• Don’t Overbake: The pudding should be soft inside. Overbaking can make it dry.
• Add Moisture with Sauce: A drizzle of vanilla sauce, caramel, or warm cream adds indulgence.
• Rest Before Serving: Let it cool slightly to allow the custard to firm up for easier slicing.

Delicious Variations and Serving Ideas

• Classic Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce: Combine this recipe with a simple vanilla cream sauce for a traditional dessert.
• Chocolate Bread Pudding: Replace raisins with chocolate chips and add cocoa powder to the custard for a rich, chocolatey twist.
• Fruit Bread Pudding: Add diced apples, peaches, or berries for extra freshness and color.
• Breakfast Version: Pair bread pudding with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet morning treat.

Serve warm with ice cream, caramel drizzle, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For a lighter pairing, fresh berries and a touch of yogurt balance the sweetness perfectly.

Storing and Freezing Bread Pudding

After baking, let the bread pudding cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Bread Pudding Through the Ages

Bread pudding has humble roots as a “poor man’s pudding” from medieval England, where cooks found clever ways to use leftover bread. Today, it’s celebrated worldwide as a comforting, no-waste dessert. From Southern-style versions with bourbon sauce to Caribbean rum-spiked varieties, bread pudding continues to evolve while keeping its nostalgic charm.

Final Thoughts

This classic bread pudding recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With a handful of pantry staples, you can create a luscious, heartwarming dessert that feels both rustic and luxurious. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a rich sauce, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that never goes out of style.

Conclusion

There’s a reason bread pudding remains a beloved dessert across generations — it’s simple, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. With its golden crust, creamy interior, and customizable flavors, it transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether you serve it warm with a drizzle of vanilla sauce or chilled with a spoonful of whipped cream, bread pudding brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to any table. So, the next time you have leftover bread, turn it into this irresistible dessert — your family and guests will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bread Pudding

1. Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the bread pudding a few hours or even a day in advance. Cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This actually helps the bread soak up more custard, resulting in a richer texture. When ready to serve, bake as directed and enjoy warm.

2. How do I know when my bread pudding is fully baked?

Your bread pudding is done when the top is golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean but slightly moist. The center should feel set yet soft — overbaking can cause it to dry out.

3. What type of bread works best for bread pudding?

Sturdy, slightly stale bread varieties like brioche, challah, sourdough, or French bread are ideal. These absorb the custard mixture without becoming mushy, ensuring a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

4. How can I serve leftover bread pudding?

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30 seconds. Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to keep it moist. It’s delicious served warm with caramel sauce, ice cream, or even fresh fruit.

More Relevant Recipes