Simple Bread Pudding Recipe: Bread pudding is one of those timeless comfort desserts that instantly feels like a warm hug on a plate. If you’ve never tried it, you’re in for a treat. Imagine chunks of soft, day-old bread soaked in a creamy vanilla custard, then baked until golden and crisp on top with a rich, soft center. It’s humble, it’s delicious, and best of all—it’s incredibly easy to make.
Originating in Europe as a frugal way to use stale bread, bread pudding quickly made its way into kitchens around the world. From simple family meals to fancy restaurant menus, it’s beloved for both its taste and its versatility. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover bread or just craving a simple homemade dessert, bread pudding hits the sweet spot every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes bread pudding so appealing is how you likely already have most of the ingredients sitting in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need for a classic recipe:
Basic Ingredients:
- 6 cups of day-old bread (cubed)
- 2 cups of milk (whole milk preferred)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
Optional Add-ins for Flavor:
- 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped nuts
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Zest of one orange or lemon
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips
You can get creative here. Bread pudding is incredibly forgiving, so whether you want to keep it traditional or spice it up, there’s room for experimentation.
Kitchen Tools Required
You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to whip this up. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools:
- Mixing bowls (at least two)
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Baking dish (8×8 or 9×13 works)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Nice-to-Have Tools:
- Silicone spatula
- Sifter for the cinnamon or sugar
- Pastry brush for buttering the dish
If you’re short on tools, no worries. Even a large fork can replace a whisk in a pinch. The beauty of bread pudding is its simplicity—no stand mixers, food processors, or stress required.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Bread Pudding
Now comes the fun part—making the actual pudding. Here’s a foolproof step-by-step guide to get that golden, custardy magic just right.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat up while you prep everything else.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Cut or tear your day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. Place them in your baking dish.
- If the bread isn’t stale, just pop it in the oven for 10 minutes to dry it out a bit. This helps it soak up the custard better.
Step 3: Make the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. Make sure everything is well combined.
- If you’re adding raisins, nuts, or other extras, stir them in now.
Step 4: Combine and Soak
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish.
- Press down gently with a spoon or spatula so all the bread is soaked.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to ensure the custard really soaks in.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes.
- It’s ready when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives it time to set a little, making it easier to cut and serve.
Tips for the Best Bread Pudding
Want to take your bread pudding from good to amazing? Here are some tried-and-true tips:
- Best Bread Choices: Brioche, challah, and French bread work best. They’re sturdy yet absorbent and offer a rich flavor.
- Avoid Soggy Pudding: Don’t skip the soaking step and make sure the bread is dry/stale. Fresh bread can get mushy.
- Flavor Boosters: A splash of bourbon, rum, or flavored extracts (like almond or maple) can really elevate the dish.
You’ll be surprised how a few small tweaks can transform this simple recipe into your signature dessert.
Creative Variations to Try
One of the best things about bread pudding is how endlessly adaptable it is. Once you’ve nailed the basic recipe, you can branch out and get creative with all kinds of exciting flavors and textures. Here are a few fun variations to try next time you’re in the kitchen:
1. Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding
Add a generous handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips to your custard mix or sprinkle them between layers of bread. As the pudding bakes, the chocolate melts into gooey pockets of deliciousness. A drizzle of chocolate syrup on top when serving doesn’t hurt either!
2. Apple Cinnamon Twist
Dice one or two apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great), toss them in cinnamon and a bit of brown sugar, then mix into your bread before pouring the custard over. It gives the pudding a warm, spiced, autumn flavor that’s perfect for chilly nights.
3. Savory Bread Pudding
Who says bread pudding has to be sweet? Swap the sugar and vanilla for grated cheese, sautéed onions, cooked sausage, spinach, and herbs. Use a savory custard base with eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and maybe a dash of hot sauce. It’s like a strata—a hearty, comforting meal.
4. Tropical Bread Pudding
Add chunks of pineapple, shredded coconut, and a splash of coconut milk in the custard. Serve with a pineapple glaze or a scoop of coconut ice cream for that beachy vibe.
5. Pumpkin Spice Pudding
Mix 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree into your custard and add pumpkin spice seasoning. Top with pecans for a nutty crunch. It’s basically fall in dessert form.
The key to variations is maintaining the balance between liquid and bread. So if you’re adding wet ingredients like fruit or purees, slightly reduce the milk or eggs to keep the consistency right.
Serving Suggestions
Bread pudding is amazing fresh out of the oven, but how you serve it can take it to a whole new level. It’s one of those desserts that pairs well with almost anything, depending on your taste and the season.
1. Serve Warm or Cold?
- Most people prefer it warm straight from the oven, but it also tastes great chilled. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even better the next day.
2. Sauce It Up
A good sauce can elevate your bread pudding from a simple dish to a gourmet experience:
- Vanilla sauce – Classic and creamy
- Caramel sauce – Adds rich sweetness
- Bourbon sauce – For an adult twist
- Chocolate ganache – Decadent and indulgent
3. Top It Off
- Whipped cream, ice cream (especially vanilla bean or cinnamon), powdered sugar, or fresh berries all make great toppings.
- For crunch, sprinkle toasted nuts, coconut flakes, or even crushed graham crackers on top.
4. Presentation Tips
Cut it into neat squares or use a round cutter for a more elegant serving. Garnish with a mint leaf or a dusting of cocoa powder for that final touch.
Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or a random Wednesday night, bread pudding always feels special.
How to Store and Reheat Bread Pudding
One of the best things about bread pudding is that it stores well and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious for days:
Storing in the Fridge:
- Let the bread pudding cool completely before covering it.
- Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- It will last in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
Freezing Bread Pudding:
- Cut it into individual portions before freezing.
- Wrap each piece in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for 15–20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1–2 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Quick and easy—just a few minutes at 350°F will do the trick.
Pro tip: Add a spoonful of milk or a pat of butter before reheating to keep the pudding moist and tender.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though bread pudding is simple, there are a few pitfalls that can throw things off. Let’s break down the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
1. Using Fresh Bread
Fresh bread doesn’t absorb custard as well, leading to a soggy, mushy result. Always use stale or toasted bread for the best texture.
2. Skipping the Soak Time
Letting the bread soak in the custard is key to achieving a creamy, uniform interior. Rushing this step can leave you with dry spots or uneven flavor.
3. Overbaking or Underbaking
Overbaking can dry it out, while underbaking leaves the center too wet. Bake until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
4. Wrong Bread Type
Too-soft breads like sandwich loafs or white rolls may dissolve completely. Stick to heartier breads like brioche, challah, or rustic sourdough.
5. Not Preheating the Oven
Always preheat your oven so the pudding cooks evenly from the start. A cold oven can lead to underbaked centers and overcooked edges.
Fix these small issues, and your bread pudding will go from decent to divine every single time.
Nutritional Info (Approximate)
Bread pudding is undeniably a comfort dessert, which means it’s rich and indulgent. But understanding its nutritional breakdown can help you make informed choices, especially if you’re watching your diet or planning a more balanced meal.
Here’s the approximate nutrition information per serving (based on a classic recipe serving 8):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320–400 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40–50g |
| Sugars | 20–30g |
| Protein | 7–10g |
| Fat | 15–20g |
| Saturated Fat | 7–10g |
| Fiber | 1–2g |
| Sodium | 200–300mg |
| Cholesterol | 120–150mg |
Healthier Swaps to Consider:
- Milk: Use low-fat or plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut.
- Sugar: Reduce sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia.
- Bread: Choose whole grain bread for extra fiber.
- Eggs: Use fewer yolks or try egg substitutes for lower cholesterol.
- Butter: Swap in applesauce or mashed banana to cut down on fat content.
Bread pudding doesn’t have to be a calorie bomb. With just a few simple adjustments, you can make it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
FAQs about Simple Bread Pudding Recipe
1. What is bread pudding made of?
Bread pudding is typically made from day-old bread, milk, sugar, eggs, and spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Optional add-ins include raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips.
2. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
Yes, but stale or slightly dried bread absorbs the custard better. If using fresh bread, lightly toast it in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out.
3. How do I know when bread pudding is done baking?
It’s ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The custard should be set, not runny.
4. Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat before serving, or serve it cold if preferred.
5. What’s the best sauce for bread pudding?
Popular options include vanilla sauce, caramel sauce, bourbon sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
6. Can I freeze bread pudding?
Yes, let it cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
7. Is bread pudding supposed to be soggy?
It should be moist and custardy, but not overly soggy. Proper baking and using the right bread-to-custard ratio helps achieve the perfect texture.
Conclusion
Bread pudding is a timeless dessert that proves simplicity can be truly magical. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a dish that’s warm, comforting, and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to the traditional version or get creative with add-ins and sauces, bread pudding never fails to impress. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again—not just because it’s easy, but because it brings people together around the table.
So next time you’ve got leftover bread lying around, don’t toss it—turn it into this delicious classic. Bake it, share it, and enjoy every sweet, soft, and crispy bite.
