Bread pudding is a classic, comforting dessert made by soaking stale or fresh bread in a rich custard mixture, then baking it until golden and set. This old-fashioned dish turns simple ingredients into a warm, delicious treat that’s perfect for any season. Whether served plain or topped with sauces like caramel or vanilla, bread pudding is loved worldwide for its cozy texture and sweet, homey flavors.
Quick Facts
Here’s a quick overview of bread pudding to get you started:
| Course | Dessert |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | American / British |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 6-8 |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45 minutes |
| Calories | Approx. 320 per serving |
Equipment Needed
Before you start, gather the right tools to make the process smooth and easy:
- Mixing bowls: At least one large bowl to mix the custard and bread.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
- Whisk: To beat eggs and mix custard smoothly.
- Loaf pan or baking dish: A 9×9-inch baking dish or similar size works perfectly.
- Oven: For baking the pudding to golden perfection.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: To fold ingredients gently.
- Knife and cutting board: To cut bread into cubes.
- Cooling rack: To cool the pudding after baking.
Make sure your baking dish fits comfortably in your oven, and always use oven mitts for safety.
Ingredients
You will need the following to create a classic bread pudding:
- 6 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (French bread or brioche works great)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with butter.
- Soak the bread: Place bread cubes in a large bowl.
- Make the custard: In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine: Pour custard over bread. Let sit for 10 minutes, stirring gently to soak bread evenly.
- Add raisins if using, and stir in melted butter.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
- Cool on a rack for 10 minutes before serving.
Essential Note:
Use day-old or stale bread for the best texture—it soaks up the custard without turning mushy. Fresh bread may become too soggy. If you prefer a richer pudding, add more cream or an extra egg. Customize with nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Always preheat the oven fully to ensure even cooking.
