Old Fashioned Bread Pudding

There’s something irresistible about the classic comfort of Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding, right? Whether it’s served warm with a drizzle of vanilla sauce or as a simple dessert on its own, bread pudding is one of those timeless treats that never fails to satisfy. Now, imagine a combination of soft, custardy bread with warm hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla—this is what Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is all about!

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted a warm dessert that would bring the family together. Since then, it’s become a staple in our household. Not only is it ridiculously easy to make, but it’s also a great way to use up leftover bread and pantry staples. And let’s be honest, the comforting aroma of cinnamon and vanilla baking in the oven is enough to draw everyone to the table.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking for a classic dessert to share, this bread pudding will hit the spot. The best part? It’s made with simple ingredients, but the flavors are rich and indulgent. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it step-by-step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything you need in your pantry and fridge right now.
• Warm and Comforting: The combination of cinnamon, vanilla, and warm custard is pure comfort in every bite.
• Versatile: Serve it as a dessert or even as a special breakfast treat.
• Perfect for Leftover Bread: No need to waste bread—this recipe gives it a delicious second life.
• Family Favorite: It’s a dessert that both kids and adults will love!

With its soft, custardy texture and warm spices, this bread pudding can stand alone or pair perfectly with your favorite toppings. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Trust me, this classic dessert will become a regular in your kitchen!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: Serves 6-8

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g

Ingredients:

• 6 cups of day-old bread, cubed (French bread or any sturdy loaf)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for a richer pudding)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup raisins (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for drizzling)
• Pinch of salt

Ingredient Breakdown:

• Bread: Day-old bread works best for this recipe as it soaks up the custard without becoming too mushy.
• Eggs: These bind the ingredients and create a rich custard.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These warm spices give the pudding that classic, comforting flavor.
• Raisins: Add a little sweetness and texture, but feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
• Vanilla: Enhances the sweetness and warmth of the pudding.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will ensure the pudding doesn’t stick and allows for easy serving.

2. Cube the Bread

Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. If your bread is fresh, you can lightly toast the cubes in the oven for 5-10 minutes to dry them out. Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish.

3. Prepare the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth. This mixture will create the rich, custardy base for the bread pudding.

4. Soak the Bread

Pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread, making sure all the bread is well-soaked. Gently press down on the bread with a spoon to ensure it absorbs the custard. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the bread can fully soak up the liquid.

Pro Tip: If you like raisins, sprinkle them over the soaked bread at this stage, so they get evenly distributed.

5. Drizzle with Butter

Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the soaked bread cubes. This adds a delicious richness and helps the pudding brown beautifully.

6. Bake

Bake the bread pudding in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread pudding should be set but still soft in the middle.

7. Cool and Serve

Let the bread pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s delicious served warm, but also tastes great at room temperature.

How to Serve

This Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is versatile and can be dressed up or enjoyed simply on its own. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Classic Dessert: Serve with a drizzle of vanilla sauce or caramel sauce.
• Ice Cream Pairing: Top with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an extra treat.
• Breakfast: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee for a comforting breakfast or brunch option.

Additional Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding:

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard better, creating a perfect balance of texture.
• Don’t Skip the Soak: Let the bread cubes sit in the custard for at least 10 minutes before baking to ensure they soak up all that delicious flavor.
• Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your bread pudding with chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a splash of rum or bourbon for extra flavor.
• Serve with Sauce: A simple vanilla or caramel sauce elevates this dessert to a new level.

Recipe Variations:

• Chocolate Bread Pudding: Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the pudding for a decadent twist.
• Fruit-Filled: Mix in fresh or dried fruits like apples, pears, or dried cranberries.
• Nutty: Toss in some toasted pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Leftover bread pudding can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or pop the whole dish back in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Freezing: Bread pudding freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment:

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe, ensuring even baking.
• Whisk: For creating a smooth and well-mixed custard.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large bowl to whisk the custard and a smaller one for the eggs.

FAQ:

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the bread pudding and store it in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking.

Do I have to use raisins?
No, raisins are optional. Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.

Can I use any type of bread?
Yes, as long as it’s sturdy bread like French bread, brioche, or challah. Avoid soft sandwich bread.

Conclusion:

And there you have it—an easy, delicious Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. With its warm spices, custardy texture, and simple ingredients, this dessert is perfect for cozy nights or special occasions. Whether you enjoy it as-is or pair it with a topping of your choice, this bread pudding will never disappoint.

Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins and toppings to make this recipe your own. Perhaps add some chocolate for a decadent treat or some fruit for a burst of flavor. Whatever you choose, this classic dessert is sure to bring smiles and warmth to your table.

Happy baking and enjoy every bite! 😊

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