Name: Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups stale bread, cubed; 2 cups whole milk; ½ cup heavy cream; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional); 2 tablespoons melted butter; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons warm water

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a nostalgic dessert that wraps you up in a cozy, homemade hug, the Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe is the answer. This heartwarming classic transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a custardy treat filled with the comforting flavors of vanilla, cinnamon, and just a hint of nostalgia. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven on a chilly evening or dress it up with a silky vanilla sauce for special occasions, this dish truly celebrates the magic of easy baking and the joy of sharing homemade goodness with people you love.

Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe serves a delicious purpose, whether it’s creating the creamy custard or adding a touch of warmth and spice. These humble staples are easy to find and, when combined, deliver a dessert that’s pure comfort food at its finest.

Stale Bread (4 cups, cubed): Slightly stale bread soaks up the custard without turning mushy—brioche, challah, or French bread provide great texture.
Whole Milk (2 cups): Adds creamy richness and helps blend all the flavors together.
Heavy Cream (½ cup): Lends extra decadence and a smooth, custardy texture.
Granulated Sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the pudding just enough, balancing the spices and custard.
Large Eggs (3): Essential for binding the custard and giving the pudding structure.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the dessert with warm, aromatic notes.
Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Delivers familiar spice and depth.
Ground Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Provides subtle warmth and complexity.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances and balances the sweetness.
Raisins or Chopped Nuts (½ cup, optional): For little bites of texture and extra burst of flavor.
Melted Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create a golden crust.
For the Vanilla Sauce:
Unsalted Butter (½ cup): The silky base for your comforting vanilla sauce.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the sauce and creates a smooth consistency.
Large Egg (1): Helps thicken and enrich the sauce.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Doubles the flavor and aroma in every bite.
Warm Water (2 tablespoons): Thins the sauce just enough for perfect drizzling.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing your baking dish with butter. Arrange the cubed, stale bread evenly in the dish. If you’re including raisins or chopped nuts, sprinkle them over the bread for even distribution. This ensures every bite of the Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe is speckled with little surprises.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture. Finish by drizzling in the melted butter—this little addition makes your custard even richer and more flavorful. If you want to get fancy, consider a splash of bourbon or rum for extra warmth and aroma.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread Pudding

Pour the luscious custard evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing everything down with a spatula or your fingers. This helps the bread absorb all that creamy goodness. Let the mixture sit for about 10 to 15 minutes, giving the Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe its signature, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The pudding is ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean, with just a hint of moisture. Be careful not to overbake; you want your bread pudding to remain soft and custardy in the middle. Once it’s done, let it cool slightly while you prepare the sauce.

Step 5: Make the Classic Vanilla Sauce

While the pudding cools, melt your butter in a saucepan over low heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and powdered sugar until smooth. Slowly add the warm melted butter, whisking all the while so the egg doesn’t scramble. Stir in vanilla extract and warm water, continuing to whisk until the sauce is silky and glossy. Drizzle generously over your warm bread pudding, or serve on the side for everyone to pour as they please. For a fun twist, try swapping the vanilla sauce with caramel, a bourbon glaze, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

This Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe truly shines with the right finish. A pour of warm vanilla sauce is classic, but a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, a handful of toasted nuts, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can send it over the top. For a pop of color and freshness, add a few berries or orange zest right before serving.

Side Dishes

Since the bread pudding is rich and comforting, serve it alongside a simple cup of hot coffee, tea, or even an after-dinner liqueur. A small dish of stewed apples or poached fruit can add a bright, tangy contrast that balances the sweet, custardy pudding beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe to showstopper status by baking it in individual ramekins or mason jars for a fun, single-serve presentation. You can also cut the cooled pudding into neat squares and serve on a platter for brunch spreads or holiday buffets. Don’t be afraid to get playful—layer in chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or swirl in a bit of Nutella for a modern twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store any extra Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, and the flavors only get better as they meld overnight. Just make sure it’s cool before wrapping to avoid condensation and sogginess.

Freezing

This dessert is freezer-friendly! Allow the bread pudding to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze in an airtight container for up to two months. For best results, slice it before freezing so you can thaw individual pieces whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual servings (with a splash of milk or cream) until hot, or warm the entire baking dish in a 325°F oven, covered with foil. The sauce can also be gently reheated on the stove or in the microwave. Drizzle the sauce after warming to keep everything tasting freshly made.

FAQs

Can I make the Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe with gluten-free bread?

Absolutely! You can substitute with your favorite gluten-free loaf—just ensure it’s a bit stale for that ideal custardy texture. The pudding will still taste wonderfully comforting and delicious.

Do I have to use whole milk and heavy cream?

If you want the Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe to be extra rich, stick with the suggested dairy. However, you can swap for half-and-half or use all whole milk for a slightly lighter result. Plant-based milks also work, but the texture will be a bit different.

What can I do if my bread isn’t stale?

No worries! Just cube your bread and lightly toast it in a low oven for 10 to 15 minutes. This dries it out enough to absorb all the custard and deliver the right consistency in your bread pudding.

Can I make the pudding ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe ahead and chill it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the bread to soak up all the custard flavors and makes it super convenient for entertaining. Bake right before you plan to serve.

Can I skip the raisins or nuts?

Absolutely—this Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe is endlessly adaptable. Leave them out, or replace with chocolate chips, dried fruit, or whatever mix-ins make you smile. It’s all about making it your own!

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a kitchen adventure that’s as easy as it is rewarding, don’t wait to try the Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe. Every spoonful is a reminder that sometimes the simplest recipes truly are the most special—perfect to share with friends or to savor all to yourself. Happy baking!

Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding recipe, a classic dessert that combines tender bread soaked in a rich custard, baked to golden perfection, and served with a luscious vanilla sauce.

Instructions

Preparing the Bread – Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a baking dish with butter. Place the cubed bread into the dish and spread it evenly. If using raisins or nuts, sprinkle them over the bread to ensure even distribution.
Making the Custard Mixture – In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Once combined, pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until fully incorporated. Drizzle the melted butter into the mixture for added richness.
Soaking and Baking the Bread – Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid. Allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Bake for about 45–50 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the pudding is set but slightly soft in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Making the Vanilla Sauce – While the pudding bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with powdered sugar. Slowly add the warm butter, whisking constantly. Stir in vanilla extract and warm water until smooth. Remove from heat and drizzle over the warm bread pudding.

Notes

The choice of bread can greatly influence the texture of the pudding.
Consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture for enhanced flavor.
Experiment with different sweeteners like brown sugar or maple syrup for varied tastes.
Try serving the bread pudding with caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for different flavor profiles.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American