Best Bread Pudding: The Ultimate Recipe and Guide

Best bread pudding, warm from the oven, is a hug in dessert form. Imagine sinking your spoon into a custardy, comforting cloud, studded with sweet raisins and boasting a hint of cinnamon spice. It’s a dish that evokes memories of cozy kitchens and shared family meals, and I’m thrilled to share my version with you!

Bread pudding, in its essence, is a testament to resourceful cooking. Originating as a way to use up stale bread, it has evolved into a beloved dessert enjoyed worldwide. Its roots can be traced back to early medieval times, where frugal cooks transformed leftover bread into a delectable treat. Over the centuries, regional variations have emerged, each adding its unique touch to this classic dish.

What makes the best bread pudding so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures – the soft, yielding bread soaked in a rich custard, contrasted by the slightly crisp edges. The flavor profile is equally appealing, with the sweetness of the custard perfectly balanced by the subtle spice and the comforting aroma that fills your home as it bakes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite fruits, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert on a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing treat for a special occasion, bread pudding is always a winner. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf (about 1 pound) day-old challah, brioche, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing
• Optional: 1 cup raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts

Preparing the Bread and Custard:

1. Prepare the Bread: First, we need to get our bread ready. If your bread isn’t already stale, you can dry it out a bit by spreading the cubes on a baking sheet and toasting them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the bread absorb the custard better without becoming soggy. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn! Let the toasted bread cubes cool slightly.
2. Grease the Baking Dish: While the bread is cooling, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Make sure to get all the corners and sides. This will prevent the bread pudding from sticking and make it easier to serve later.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the custard.
4. Whisk the Eggs: In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs until they are light and frothy. This will help create a smooth and creamy custard. Don’t over-whisk, just enough to break up the yolks and combine them with the whites.
5. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream into the eggs. Make sure to whisk constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. We want a nice, smooth mixture.
6. Incorporate Sugar and Spices: Slowly pour the sugar and spice mixture into the egg and milk mixture, whisking constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is crucial for a smooth and even custard.
7. Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract. Vanilla adds a lovely warmth and depth of flavor to the bread pudding.
8. Melt the Butter: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or in a saucepan over low heat. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the custard.
9. Incorporate Melted Butter: Slowly drizzle the melted butter into the custard mixture, whisking constantly. The butter adds richness and helps to create a tender bread pudding.
10. Optional Add-ins: If you’re using raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts, now is the time to add them to the custard mixture. Stir them in gently to distribute them evenly. I personally love adding raisins soaked in rum for an extra kick!

Soaking and Baking:

1. Combine Bread and Custard: Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is submerged.
2. Press Down Gently: Gently press down on the bread cubes with a spatula or your hands to ensure they are fully saturated with the custard. This will help the bread pudding bake evenly and prevent any dry spots.
3. Soak the Bread: Let the bread pudding sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for an hour. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a moist and delicious bread pudding. You can also refrigerate it for several hours or overnight for an even deeper flavor. If refrigerating, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Bake the Bread Pudding: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
6. Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the bread pudding while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.
7. Cool Slightly: Once the bread pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to set up a bit more and makes it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Serve Warm: Bread pudding is best served warm. The warmth enhances the flavors and makes it even more comforting.
2. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, you can dust the bread pudding with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and elegance.
3. Add a Sauce: Bread pudding is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a sauce. Here are a few suggestions:
   • Vanilla Sauce: A classic vanilla sauce is a perfect complement to bread pudding.
   • Caramel Sauce: A rich and decadent caramel sauce adds a touch of indulgence.
   • Bourbon Sauce: For a more sophisticated flavor, try a bourbon sauce.
   • Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote, such as berry or apple, adds a bright and fruity element.
4. Top with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a welcome addition to bread pudding.
5. Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Garnish with fresh berries or sliced fruit for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Enjoy! Most importantly, enjoy your homemade bread pudding! It’s a delicious and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Tips for Success:

• Use Day-Old Bread: Day-old bread is essential for bread pudding. It’s drier and more absorbent than fresh bread, which helps it soak up the custard without becoming soggy.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry and rubbery bread pudding. Bake until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: You can adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet bread pudding, reduce the amount of granulated sugar and brown sugar.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different flavors and add-ins. You can try using different types of bread, adding different spices, or incorporating different fruits or nuts.
• Make Ahead: Bread pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving.

Variations:

• Chocolate Bread Pudding: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a chocolatey twist. You can also add chocolate chips or chunks.
• Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Add diced apples and extra cinnamon to the bread pudding for a warm and comforting flavor.
• Pumpkin Bread Pudding: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the custard mixture for a seasonal treat.
• Savory Bread Pudding: Omit the sugar and vanilla extract and add savory ingredients such as cheese, herbs, and vegetables for a delicious savory bread pudding.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake the entire bread pudding in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Enjoy your delicious homemade bread pudding! I hope this recipe helps you create a truly memorable dessert.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This isn’t just any bread pudding recipe; it’s a journey into comfort food heaven, a warm hug on a plate, and quite possibly the best bread pudding you’ll ever make. The combination of the rich custard, the perfectly soaked bread, and that hint of spice creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a classic dessert done right.

But why is it a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s also surprisingly versatile. It’s perfect for a cozy weekend brunch, a comforting weeknight dessert, or even a show-stopping finale to a holiday meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover bread you might have lying around, reducing food waste and creating something truly delicious in the process. What’s not to love?

Now, let’s talk serving suggestions and variations, because the possibilities are endless! For a truly decadent experience, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon adds an extra touch of indulgence. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips to the bread mixture before baking.

Here are a few more ideas to spark your creativity:

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic: Warm bread pudding with vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Caramel Delight: Drizzled with warm caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt.
• Berry Bliss: Topped with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
• Boozy Brunch: Served with a side of bourbon cream sauce (for adults only, of course!).

Variations to Try:

• Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the bread mixture.
• Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Incorporate diced apples and an extra teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Nutty Delight Bread Pudding: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding: Add dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive twist.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! That’s the beauty of cooking, isn’t it? It’s all about creating something that you love and sharing it with the people you care about.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I’m practically begging you to try it! Seriously, clear your schedule, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade bread pudding. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And once you’ve made it (and devoured it, let’s be honest), I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of this incredible best bread pudding! I’m sure you’ll agree that it’s a recipe worth keeping and sharing for generations to come.