Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding
Is there anything more comforting than a warm, fragrant bread pudding on a chilly day? This Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding – Made with French bread and a spiced custard is a timeless dessert for a reason. It's incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, and delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that's simply divine. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert for the holidays or a simple treat to enjoy on a lazy Sunday afternoon, this recipe will become a family favorite!
Equipment
- oven
- 9x13-inch baking dish,
- Baking sheet
- Large bowl
- - Whisk
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread cut into 1-inch cubes (slightly stale bread works best!)
Custard
- 4 cups milk whole milk recommended for richness, but 2% or almond milk will work
- 1 cup heavy cream optional, but adds extra creaminess
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional toppings
- raisins, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, caramel sauce, Bourbon sauce (perfect for a Bread Pudding With Bourbon Sauce!)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly toasted. This helps prevent the bread pudding from becoming soggy.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream (if using), eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined.
- Soak the Bread: Place the toasted bread cubes in a large bowl or the baking dish you will use. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure all the bread is evenly moistened. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour.
- Bake the Bread Pudding: Pour the bread and custard mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle with raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts.
- Bake until Golden: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with caramel sauce or bourbon sauce, if desired.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and coconut cream. You can also substitute the French bread with challah, brioche, or croissants. Get creative and use up what you have on hand!