Name: Classic Bread Pudding
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz stale Challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes; ½ cup light brown sugar, packed; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1½ tsp ground cinnamon; ¾ tsp table salt; 5 large eggs; 1½ cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp cold butter, cut into small pieces; 2 tbsp turbinado sugar (optional, for topping); 4 tbsp unsalted butter; ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup heavy cream; ⅛ tsp salt; ½ tsp vanilla extract

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Classic Bread Pudding is a delightful way to transform stale bread into a comforting and delicious dessert. This classic recipe layers rich flavors and textures, making it a favorite among family and friends. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday meals, or simply as a way to indulge in something sweet and satisfying.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 380
Protein: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 20 g
Sodium: 410 mg

Why Make This Classic Bread Pudding Recipe

This Classic Bread Pudding recipe is a celebration of comfort food at its finest. The combination of stale bread, rich custard, and warm spices creates a dish that is both hearty and soothing. With every bite, you experience the soft and creamy texture intermingling with a hint of sweetness and the nostalgic aroma of vanilla and cinnamon. Plus, it’s an easy way to make use of leftover bread, minimizing food waste while delivering a satisfying dessert that everyone loves.

How to Make Classic Bread Pudding Recipe

Ingredients:

16 oz stale Challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
¾ tsp table salt
5 large eggs
1 ½ cups (354 ml) whole milk
1 cup (236 ml) heavy cream
2 tbsp (28 g) cold butter, cut into small pieces
2 tbsp turbinado sugar (optional, for topping)
4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter
¼ cup (50 g) light brown sugar, packed
¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
⅛ tsp salt
½ tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter to prevent sticking. Cut the stale bread into 1-inch cubes, and place them in a large bowl.

Step 2: Mixing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the whole milk and heavy cream. Mix well until everything is combined, then pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes.

Step 3: Cooking

Gently fold the bread cubes into the liquid mixture, ensuring all pieces get saturated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, so the bread absorbs the flavors. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, and dot with small pieces of cold butter. If desired, sprinkle the turbinado sugar on top for added crunch.

Step 4: Finishing

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You should be able to insert a knife in the center and have it come out clean. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Classic Bread Pudding Recipe

Serve the Classic Bread Pudding warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. For an extra touch, drizzle it with a buttery sauce made from melting together additional unsalted butter, light brown and granulated sugars, heavy cream, salt, and vanilla extract. You can also top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

How to Store Classic Bread Pudding Recipe

Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 30-60 seconds.

Expert Tips for Perfect Classic Bread Pudding Recipe

Use stale bread: The drier the bread, the better it absorbs the custard without becoming overly mushy.
Experiment with flavors: Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
Let it rest: Allowing the mixture to sit helps the bread absorb the custard fully, yielding a creamier texture.
Test for doneness: Be sure to do the knife test; if it comes out clean, your pudding is ready!

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the bread mixture before baking for a deliciously decadent dessert.
Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Fold in 1-2 cups of diced apples along with ½ teaspoon of nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Maple Pecan Bread Pudding: Replace some of the sugar with maple syrup and toss in some chopped pecans to give an extra flavor twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale? Fresh bread can work, but stale bread is recommended for the best texture as it absorbs custard without becoming soggy.
What is the best bread for bread pudding? Challah or brioche are excellent choices due to their rich texture and slightly sweet flavor. French bread also works well.
Can I prepare bread pudding in advance? Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it just before serving.
What toppings are best for bread pudding? Try serving with caramel sauce, whipped cream, or fresh fruit to complement the sweetness of the pudding.
Is it necessary to include eggs in the recipe? Eggs provide structure and richness; however, you can substitute with a flaxseed mixture for a vegan option.

Conclusion

This Classic Bread Pudding recipe is a comforting dessert that embraces the beauty of simplicity while stirring up cherished memories. With its warm, creamy texture and delightful sweetness, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy the wonderful experience of making—and sharing—this heartwarming dish!