Bread Pudding Recipe

Craving a warm, comforting dessert? This classic bread pudding recipe is a rich and flavorful treat that turns simple ingredients into a decadent delight. Made with buttery toasted bread, a creamy custard mixture, and a touch of rum for depth, this old-fashioned dessert is perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions. Serve it warm with a luscious glaze for an irresistible bite every time!

Ingredients List

To achieve the perfect bread pudding, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating the ideal texture and flavor for this beloved dessert.

Bread Pudding Base

• 1 long loaf of French Bread (torn into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter (melted)
• 1 cup raisins (optional, but adds a sweet chewiness)
• 4 cups milk (whole milk works best for a rich texture)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup dark rum or whisky (optional, for added depth; substitute with ½ cup extra milk if desired)

Sweet Glaze Topping

• ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter (melted and cooled)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process:

1. Large Mixing Bowl – To whisk the custard mixture evenly.
2. Whisk – Helps incorporate eggs, sugar, and milk into a smooth blend.
3. Large Skillet – Used to toast the bread with butter for extra flavor.
4. 2-Quart Casserole Dish – The perfect size for baking the pudding.
5. Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.
6. Nonstick Cooking Spray – Prevents the pudding from sticking to the dish.

Having these tools on hand will make the process easy and enjoyable, ensuring your bread pudding turns out perfectly every time!

Preparing the Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish (or an 8×8-inch baking dish) with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

Cut or tear 1 long loaf of French bread into bite-sized pieces.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter. Add the bread pieces and lightly toast them, stirring constantly. The bread will absorb the butter and become golden brown and slightly crispy. This step enhances the texture and flavor of the pudding.

Once toasted, transfer the bread to the prepared casserole dish and evenly sprinkle 1 cup of raisins over the top.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 4 cups milk
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup dark rum or whisky (or substitute with additional milk)

Whisk the mixture until fully combined and smooth. This forms the rich custard base that will soak into the bread.

Step 4: Assemble the Pudding

Slowly pour the custard mixture over the toasted bread and raisins in the casserole dish. Press the bread down gently with a spoon to ensure it absorbs the liquid evenly. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before baking to allow the bread to soak up all the flavors.

Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour.

Baking Tips:

• Check the pudding at the 40-minute mark. It’s done when the custard is set, the top is golden brown, and the edges start pulling away from the dish.
• Insert a toothpick or knife into the center—if it comes out clean, your bread pudding is ready!

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before adding the sweet glaze topping.

Making the Buttery Glaze

A sweet buttery glaze takes this classic bread pudding to the next level! It adds a rich, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that perfectly complements the warm, custardy pudding.

Step 1: Prepare the Glaze

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:

• ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Whisk until the glaze is smooth and pourable. If it’s too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of warm milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 2: Pour the Glaze Over the Pudding

Once the bread pudding is out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the warm buttery glaze over the top.

Pro Tip: For an extra decadent touch, sprinkle the pudding with cinnamon or nutmeg, or add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast!

Serving and Decoration

When serving your bread pudding, a little attention to detail can elevate the experience. Here are some suggestions for serving and garnishing this decadent dessert:

Suggested Toppings and Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that contrasts nicely with the rich pudding.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent, creamy pairing.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pudding for a luxurious finish.
• Cinnamon or Nutmeg: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg adds extra warmth and flavor, enhancing the pudding’s comforting vibe.

Best Way to Serve

While bread pudding is delicious served warm, it can also be enjoyed room temperature. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven or let it cool slightly, this dessert is sure to be a hit!

Storage Instructions

Bread pudding is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also store any leftovers for later enjoyment.

How to Keep Bread Pudding Fresh

After enjoying your first serving, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Freezing Bread Pudding

To store bread pudding for a longer period, you can freeze it. Cut the pudding into individual servings, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and remove as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion

This classic bread pudding recipe combines comfort and flavor in the best possible way. With its buttery, golden bread and rich custard base, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you make it for a cozy family dinner, a holiday treat, or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, this bread pudding will bring warmth and joy to every bite.