Description
The Best Bread Pudding is a rich, comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with day-old bread soaked in creamy custard and infused with warm spices, it’s finished with a decadent vanilla sauce for a treat that’s both nostalgic and irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
6 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread or brioche recommended)
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 cup raisins (optional)
2 tablespoons melted butter, for drizzling
For the Vanilla Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Bread and Raisins: Spread cubed bread evenly in the baking dish and sprinkle with raisins, if using.
- Make the Custard: In a bowl, whisk milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture over the bread. Press gently to soak the bread. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Bake: Drizzle melted butter over the top, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden and set.
- Prepare the Vanilla Sauce: While baking, combine heavy cream and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer, then stir in vanilla and cornstarch slurry. Cook until thickened.
- Serve: Drizzle warm vanilla sauce over the bread pudding and serve immediately.
Notes
Day-old bread is ideal for soaking up custard without turning mushy.
Optional Add-ins: Swap raisins for chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit for a personalized touch.
For a savory version, skip sugar and spices; add cheese, herbs, and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
