Description
Indulge in the comforting warmth of the Best Bread Pudding Recipe, a classic dessert that combines rich custard-soaked bread with hints of vanilla and spice. Drizzle with a decadent sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
Main Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups day-old bread (cubed; brioche, challah, or French bread work best)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
- butter for greasing the dish
For the sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Place the cubed bread in the dish.
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, eggs, sugars, vanilla, spices, and salt. Pour the custard over the bread, ensuring it’s fully soaked. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Bake the bread pudding: Sprinkle with optional ingredients, then bake for 45 to 50 minutes until golden and set.
- Make the sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, add sugar and cream, simmer, then stir in vanilla. Drizzle over the pudding before serving.
Notes
- This recipe works best with slightly stale bread.
- Soaking the pudding before baking ensures a creamy texture.
- Serve warm with sauce or ice cream.
