Bread Pudding Recipe

Name: Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 6 cups cubed day-old bread; 2 cups milk; ½ cup heavy cream; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp nutmeg; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional); 2 tbsp butter, melted

Bread pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that turns simple bread into a rich, custardy treat. Loved for its soft texture and sweet aroma, it’s perfect for chilly nights, busy evenings, or family meals. I like to make a batch when I have leftover bread—it’s quick, easy, and everyone enjoys it straight from the oven.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This bread pudding recipe is cozy, simple, and flexible. It’s naturally sweet, soft, and comforting, making it ideal for weeknight desserts or weekend treats. You can easily swap in different breads or fruits, stretch it for leftovers, and even freeze portions for later. Its comforting flavor and fuss-free prep make it a crowd-pleaser that’s both budget-friendly and versatile, perfect for saving on Pinterest for your next cozy baking session.

Ingredients

Tip: Day-old bread works best—it soaks up the custard without falling apart.

6 cups cubed day-old bread (white, whole wheat, or brioche)
2 cups milk
½ cup heavy cream
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp salt
½ cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Cube your bread and place it evenly in the dish, making sure the pieces are not packed too tightly.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour the mixture slowly over the bread cubes. Press gently so all bread absorbs the custard evenly.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
If using raisins or chocolate chips, sprinkle them across the top or fold them in lightly. Drizzle melted butter over everything for extra richness. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes so the bread soaks up the liquid fully.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

Bread pudding is a great make-ahead treat. You can prep it in the morning, bake it in the evening, or freeze portions for later. It stretches well, so leftovers make a quick breakfast or dessert. The simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time mean it’s stress-free, even on your busiest days.

Tips & Tricks

Bread choice matters: Using slightly stale bread prevents a soggy pudding. Avoid fresh bread that’s too soft, or it will turn mushy after baking.
Custard absorption: Pour custard slowly and press bread gently. Skipping this step often leaves dry pockets in your pudding.
Add-ins timing: Fold in raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips after pouring custard. Adding them too early can make them sink or clump.
Spice balance: Stick to the recommended cinnamon and nutmeg. Too much overwhelms the custard’s subtle sweetness.

Variations

Meaty version: Add cooked, crumbled sausage or bacon for a sweet-and-savory twist. It’s perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings.
Vegetarian option: Use plant-based milk and cream instead of dairy. Add fruit like chopped apples or pears to enhance flavor without losing richness.
Ingredient swap: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness. Adjust the liquid slightly to maintain the custard texture.
Flavor or herb boost: Stir in orange zest, cardamom, or a splash of rum extract. These subtle flavors make the pudding feel extra special for holidays.

Serving Suggestions

Warm with cream: Serve slices warm with a drizzle of cream or custard sauce for extra comfort.
Fruit topping: Add fresh berries or a fruit compote for bright flavor and color.
Nutty crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans on top for texture and a cozy presentation.
Simple scoop: Serve as-is with a side of tea or coffee for a casual, family-friendly dessert moment.

Storage Instructions

Fridge storage: Cover leftover pudding tightly and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently in the oven or microwave.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or bake at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.
Freezing: Wrap baked pudding tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Make-ahead tips: Assemble the pudding in the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Bake directly from fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Recipe Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Nutrition Information

Calories: 300–350 per serving
Protein: 8–10g per serving
Key nutrients: Calcium and iron from milk and eggs
Values are estimates and can vary based on bread type, add-ins, and portion size.

FAQs

Yes, assemble the pudding and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Likely too much liquid or very fresh bread. Press the bread gently to absorb custard evenly.

Absolutely—just maintain the same total liquid for proper custard consistency.

Conclusion

Bread pudding is a simple, comforting treat that turns everyday bread into something special. Its soft texture, warm spices, and custardy sweetness make it ideal for any cozy night or family gathering. Customize with your favorite fruits, nuts, or flavors, and save this recipe for later—it’s one of those dishes that always feels like home.