Bread Pudding Recipe – A Cozy Slice of Nostalgia

Introduction

There’s something magical about the aroma of Bread Pudding baking in the oven. The warm, sweet notes of cinnamon and vanilla swirl through the air, filling the kitchen with a kind of comfort that feels like a warm hug. This dish always takes me back to Sunday dinners, sitting around the table with family, laughter echoing as we enjoyed every bite. Let me share my cherished recipe with you, so you can create your own comforting moments.

Why You’ll Love This

• Quick & Easy: Simple steps make this a go-to dessert.
• Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples to create something special.
• Kid-approved: A sweet treat that everyone will love.
• Meal-prep friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead of time.
• Endless variations: Customize it with your favorite add-ins!

Quick Recipe Snapshot

• Servings: 8
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 60 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Skill level: Easy
• Taste: Sweet + spiced
  You got this! Let’s whip up some delicious Bread Pudding together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 16 oz. hearty French bread, sliced into 1-inch cubes

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

• 3 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 3 large eggs

• 2 egg yolks

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• Use sturdy bread: Adds great texture.

• Check spices: Fresh spices pack more punch.

• Full-fat dairy: Ensures richness.

How to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to get it ready for your Bread Pudding.
2. Spread the bread cubes evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until nearly dried, about 10 minutes. You want the edges just starting to crisp.
3. Remove and cool for a few minutes while the oven temperature drops to 300 degrees F.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
5. Add the eggs and egg yolks; blend them in, then stir in the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. You should have a smooth, creamy mixture.
6. Place the bread cubes in a large bowl and pour the milk mixture over them. Toss gently to coat every piece. Let this rest for 15-30 minutes while the bread absorbs all that flavor.
7. Coat a casserole dish with melted butter, then pour the bread mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake in your 300-degree oven until the center is set and a light golden color appears, about 50-65 minutes. The edges should puff up a bit and look inviting.
9. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with caramel sauce or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Kitchen Tips (From My Kitchen)

1. Time-saver: Bake the bread cubes a day ahead to speed things up.
2. Common mistake: Overbaking; look for a slight jiggle in the center.
3. Simple variation: Add chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flavor!

Serving Ideas

• Weeknight Dinner: An easy, comforting dessert any night of the week.
• Brunch: Perfect with a side of fresh fruit and coffee.
• Holidays: A festive treat for gatherings.
• Garnish: Drizzle with caramel or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet finish.

Storing & Leftovers

• Fridge storage: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer option: Yes, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat method: Microwave or warm in the oven at low heat to maintain texture.
  One tasty leftover idea? Wrap it in foil and enjoy it as a sweet breakfast sandwich!

FAQs

Can I make this Bread Pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day ahead and bake just before serving.

What can I substitute for the bread?
You can use challah or brioche for a richer version.

How do I know when it’s done?
The center should be set, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I freeze my Bread Pudding?
Yes, it freezes well! Just ensure it’s fully cool before wrapping.

Final Thoughts

Making Bread Pudding brings back so many joyful memories for me, and I hope it does the same for you. Don’t hesitate to adjust it to fit your taste and make it your own. Enjoy the delightful process and share it around your table. Happy cooking!

Bread Pudding

A warm and comforting dessert that combines the sweet flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 16 oz hearty French bread, sliced into 1-inch cubes Use sturdy bread: Adds great texture.
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon Check spices: Fresh spices pack more punch.
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 3 cups whole milk Full-fat dairy: Ensures richness.
• 1 cup heavy cream Full-fat dairy: Ensures richness.
• 3 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Spread the bread cubes evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until nearly dried, for about 10 minutes.
3. Remove and cool for a few minutes while reducing the oven temperature to 300 degrees F.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
5. Add the eggs and egg yolks; blend them in, then stir in the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Place the bread cubes in a large bowl and pour the milk mixture over them, tossing gently to coat. Let this rest for 15-30 minutes.
7. Coat a casserole dish with melted butter, pour the bread mixture into the dish, and spread it evenly.

Baking

1. Bake in the 300-degree oven until the center is set and turns light golden, about 50-65 minutes.
2. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
3. Serve with caramel sauce or whipped cream.

Notes

Time-saver: Bake the bread cubes a day ahead. Common mistake: Overbaking; look for a slight jiggle in the center. Simple variation: Add chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flavor.