The Best Bread Pudding Recipe

When it comes to cozy, crowd-pleasing desserts, The Best Bread Pudding simply can’t be beat. Imagine golden cubes of tender bread, soaked in a creamy, gently spiced custard, and baked to warm perfection—it’s nostalgia in every bite! Whether you’re making it for a holiday get-together or just seeking something special for family dinner, this classic treat combines comforting flavors and textures with effortless ease. Get ready to fall in love and add The Best Bread Pudding to your dessert repertoire forever!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of The Best Bread Pudding lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each addition has a role to play: structure from the bread, richness from the dairy, warmth from the spices, and a kiss of sweetness from sugar and raisins. Don’t be tempted to skip or substitute—these classic picks are what make this pudding so memorable!

• Day-old bread (6 cups, cubed): Slightly stale bread absorbs custard best—French or brioche are divine choices for their tender crumb and subtle sweetness.
• Whole milk (2 cups): Whole milk keeps the custard rich but not too heavy, setting up a silky texture throughout.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds luxurious body and a creamy finish—absolutely key for the “best” in The Best Bread Pudding.
• Large eggs (4): These bind the pudding together, creating that unmistakable custardy richness we all crave.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the custard perfectly and helps give the top its caramelized finish.
• Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Enhances all the flavors with a classic, aromatic warmth.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Lends cozy spice and familiar comfort—the perfect pairing with bread and custard.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle hint of earthiness and depth.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for balancing flavors and keeping the sweetness from overwhelming the dish.
• Raisins (1/2 cup, optional): For bursts of chewy, fruity sweetness in every bite—definitely recommended!
• Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Drizzled over the top, it brings both color and flavor as your pudding bakes.

How to Make The Best Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which is the sweet spot for perfectly set, golden-topped bread pudding. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then scatter your cubed day-old bread evenly inside—this ensures every piece gets a luxurious soak in the custard goodness that defines The Best Bread Pudding.

Step 2: Mix the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Aim for a smooth, unified custard—you want the eggs fully incorporated and the sugar dissolved, so each spoonful tastes perfectly rich and seasoned.

Step 3: Assemble and Soak

Feeling adventurous? Stir in raisins (optional, but delightful!). Pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread, taking care to soak every nook and cranny. Press down gently on the bread with a spatula or your hands to help it drink in all that luscious liquid. Let the pudding rest for 15–20 minutes, which guarantees a beautifully creamy interior once baked.

Step 4: Add Butter and Bake

Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly on top. This step not only adds buttery flavor but encourages a delightfully crisp and golden finish. Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top touts a beautiful golden hue.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let The Best Bread Pudding cool slightly before serving. This helps the custard fully set and makes serving much tidier. Serve warm for ultimate comfort, with your choice of toppings—whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Pure bliss!

How to Serve The Best Bread Pudding

Garnishes

This classic pudding loves a finishing touch. Try a cloud of freshly whipped cream, a generous drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For a festive spin, a scattering of chopped pecans or a scoop of vanilla ice cream never fails to delight.

Side Dishes

While The Best Bread Pudding shines as the star, pair it with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai for the ultimate dessert moment. For special brunches, serve alongside fresh berries or a simple fruit salad—the lightness of fruit balances each indulgent spoonful perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re aiming to impress, bake the pudding in individual ramekins for adorable single servings. Or cut into neat squares and layer with whipped cream in glass jars for a stunning trifle effect. Even simple family-style scoops in a rustic dish will have everyone diving in with glee!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover puddings are a gift! Store any uneaten pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, so don’t hesitate to enjoy another bite the next day.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze The Best Bread Pudding. Wrap cooled portions tightly in plastic and foil, then stash in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep beautifully for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To rekindle that just-baked magic, warm leftovers in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes, tented loosely with foil. For quick fixes, the microwave works too—just heat gently to avoid drying. Add a splash of cream before reheating if you like, to keep everything moist and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread?

Absolutely! Brioche and French bread are favorites for a reason, but challah or even sturdy sandwich bread will work. Just steer clear of overly soft or sweet loaves, as you want enough structure to soak up the custard.

Do I have to use raisins?

Nope! Raisins add a lovely chew and burst of sweetness, but you can leave them out or swap in dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips for a delightful twist.

Can I make The Best Bread Pudding ahead of time?

Yes—you can assemble the pudding and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 12 hours. Simply bake as directed when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes if it’s going into the oven cold.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Of course! Use your favorite sturdy gluten-free bread in place of traditional bread. Everything else in the recipe stays just the same, so everyone can enjoy The Best Bread Pudding.

What’s the best way to add extra flavor?

For a touch of grown-up flair, try replacing a few tablespoons of milk with bourbon or rum, or add orange zest or chocolate chips. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts are also lovely for crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving nostalgia and comfort or searching for a sweet ending to any meal, there’s nothing quite like The Best Bread Pudding. With its golden, custardy richness and endless ways to dress it up, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time after time. Give it a try—you, your family, and your friends are in for a heartwarming treat!

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