Warm & Delicious Bread Pudding Recipe to Savor Today

Bread pudding is like a warm hug on a chilly day, bringing together the comforting flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and rich custard. As it bakes, the sweet aroma wafts through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the kitchen, eagerly anticipating that first decadent bite.

Growing up, my grandma would whip up her famous bread pudding every holiday season. It was our family’s dessert tradition, and no one dared to leave the table until every last crumb was devoured. The laughter and chatter surrounding this delightful dish made it a cherished memory that still warms my heart.

I remember clearly how my friends’ eyes lit up when they tasted my first attempt at this recipe. They practically begged for the recipe!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Stale Bread: Use any bread you have on hand; day-old baguettes or brioche work wonderfully for texture.

• Milk: Whole milk gives a rich taste, but feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk for dairy-free options.

• Eggs: Fresh eggs are crucial; they provide structure and richness to the pudding.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens your dish perfectly—brown sugar adds a nice caramel flavor if you want to get fancy!

• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth; adjust to your taste for extra cozy vibes.

• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances all the flavors; avoid imitation for best results.

• Raisins (optional): Plump raisins add sweetness and texture; omit if you’re not a fan.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking dish with butter ensures an easy release later.

Prepare the Bread: Tear or cut about 6 cups of stale bread into bite-sized pieces. A mix of different breads adds unique flavors and textures.

Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth.

Combine Ingredients: Fold in the bread pieces gently until fully soaked in the custard mixture. Stir in raisins if using; let it sit for about 15 minutes.

Bake: Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and bake for about 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.

Cool & Serve: Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by mixing your custard base, then pour it over cubed bread and let it soak. Bake until golden brown while the kitchen fills with delightful aromas that could tempt even the most disciplined dieter.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts for added texture and flavor. Swapping out regular milk for almond or coconut milk can also add a unique twist to traditional bread pudding.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that each bite remains soft and gooey.

Bread pudding has always been my go-to dessert for family gatherings. I once made it for a potluck, and everyone raved about it—my secret? A splash of bourbon that made it extra special!

FAQ

Can I use different types of bread for bread pudding?

Absolutely! Brioche, challah, or even croissants can elevate your dish significantly.

Is bread pudding served hot or cold?

It’s best served warm, but some enjoy it chilled with a drizzle of cream.

How do I know when my bread pudding is done?

The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.