THE BEST BREAD PUDDING
When it comes to easy recipes, this Bread Pudding couldn’t get any simpler. Filled with cinnamon and nutmeg, it makes the perfect breakfast or dessert.
Bread pudding is something I absolutely love. You can see it in my recipes for my banana bread pudding, Pina colada bread pudding, and gingerbread bread pudding. There’s just no stopping me when it comes to this stuff.
This is a classically simple dessert that we adore. It whips up in minutes and serves a crowd! We love making this bread pudding recipe for any holiday and brunches that we host. Over the last few years, I’ve been trying to perfect my bread pudding recipe, and we finally have the best one around. Hence the title, The Best Bread Pudding.
There are no weird ingredients, nothing that you can’t find in your own pantry or fridge. It is literally just that simple, and there’s no reason why you wouldn’t want to whip it up.
We like to use French bread in our recipe. A 1lb loaf really is the perfect amount. It produces the best custard-to-bread ratio that you really look for in bread pudding recipes!
But sometimes people don’t always have that on hand. I prefer it over regular white bread because we can pick up a loaf at our local Walmart for $1. I mean, how can you beat that price? Plus, it’s so versatile.
If you don’t have French bread on hand and you want to whip this up anyways, here are some alternative breads you can use!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bread pudding recipe is incredibly easy and quick to make. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a special holiday treat. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your kitchen, and the result is a deliciously comforting dish. Plus, you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9″x13″ baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients
Bread Pudding:
- 1 (16 oz) loaf French bread
- 5 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 Tbs flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 Tbs butter
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Spray a 9″x13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cut bread into 1″-2″ squares and add to a large bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined.
- Pour over bread and stir gently to coat, then let it soak for about 20 minutes.
- Spread into baking dish and bake in the oven for about 50-60 minutes until the center is set.
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and heavy cream until combined.
- Add butter and heat on medium until butter melts and liquid starts to boil.
- Whisk until thickened slightly, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Tips for Success
Ensure the bread is well soaked to get the best texture. Letting it sit for a full 20 minutes helps the bread absorb all the flavors. Also, watch the pudding closely as it bakes; you want it set but not dry.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add raisins or chocolate chips for extra flavor. You can also try using different types of bread, like brioche or challah, for a unique twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This bread pudding is a rich and indulgent treat, so enjoy it in moderation! It contains a mix of carbs, protein, and fats, with the cream and eggs providing a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can substitute with brioche, challah, or even stale white bread.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the bread and custard mixture the night before and bake it the next day.
Conclusion
There you have it—the best bread pudding recipe that’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. I hope you give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out. Don’t forget to share your experience and any fun variations you come up with!