Bread Pudding

Why Make This Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is a delightful dessert that honors frugality while offering warmth and comfort. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover bread, transforming it into a rich, custardy treat that’s ideal for any occasion. With its golden top and soft, moist interior, bread pudding pleases the senses. The sweet, warm scent of vanilla and cinnamon wafting through your home invites loved ones to gather around the table. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it an excellent addition to brunches, picnics, or cozy family dinners.

How to Make Bread Pudding

Making bread pudding is a simple yet rewarding process. Start by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven. As the bread soaks up the creamy custard mixture, you’ll feel the excitement build for the delicious dish that will soon come out of the oven. The steps are straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to whip it up with confidence. The key is to allow the bread sufficient time to absorb the flavors, ensuring each bite is perfectly sweet and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups of bread (cubed)
• 2 cups of milk
• 1 cup of sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
• Butter (for greasing)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until the bread absorbs the mixture.
3. If using, fold in the raisins.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 225mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 22g
• Protein: 7g

How to Serve Bread Pudding

Serve your warm bread pudding with a drizzle of heavy cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top to elevate this traditional dessert. It pairs beautifully with fruits like fresh berries or sliced bananas, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pudding. For special occasions, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

How to Store Bread Pudding

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simple thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at a low temperature until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding

• Use day-old bread for the best texture—its slightly stale nature allows it to soak up the custard mixture without becoming mushy.
• Experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, for various flavor profiles.
• Don’t skip the resting time; letting the mixture sit for 15-30 minutes allows the bread to fully absorb the flavors.
• For a twist, add a splash of bourbon or rum for a warm, festive touch.

Delicious Variations

• Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips along with the bread mixture for a delightful chocolatey treat.
• Fruit-Filled Bread Pudding: Add in your favorite seasonal fruits like apples, peaches, or berries for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Savory Bread Pudding: Use cheese, spinach, and herbs for a savory take, perfect for brunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use any type of bread?
  Yes! Stale bread works best, but feel free to use any bread you have on hand. Sourdough, whole wheat, or even croissants can add unique flavors.

• How can I make it dairy-free?
  Substitute the milk with almond, soy, or coconut milk. You can also replace the eggs with a chai seed mixture or a yogurt alternative for a creamy consistency.

• Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before, store it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it in the morning. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Conclusion

Bread pudding is more than just a delicious dessert; it’s a warm reminder of the comfort found in simple ingredients and heartfelt gatherings. With its delightful aroma and versatile nature, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among your friends and family. Try your hand at this classic dish and enjoy every flavorful bite. We’d love to hear how your bread pudding turned out, so feel free to share your experiences or variations! Happy baking!

Bread Pudding

A warm and comforting dessert that transforms leftover bread into a rich custardy treat flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Brunch, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 6 cups bread, cubed Use day-old bread for the best texture.
• 2 cups milk Can be substituted with dairy-free alternatives.
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 large eggs Can be replaced with chia seed mixture for a vegan option.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional) Adds a nice sweetness and texture.
• Butter (for greasing)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until the bread absorbs the mixture.
3. If using, fold in the raisins.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Baking

1. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
2. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Serve with a drizzle of heavy cream or ice cream. Pairs well with fresh fruits. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze for 2 months.