Name: Best Bread Pudding: Transform Stale Bread into Comfort Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 8 cups stale bread (brioche or challah); 2 cups whole milk (lower-fat alternatives may affect texture); 0.5 cup granulated sugar (brown sugar can be used for richer flavor); 3 tbsp unsalted butter (can substitute with margarine or coconut oil for dairy-free option); 1 tsp ground cinnamon (nutmeg can be a warm alternative); 0.5 tsp fine sea salt (kosher salt can be used instead); 3 large eggs (flax eggs can be used for vegan version); 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract (vanilla bean paste is a great substitute); 1 cup whole milk (can swap for dairy-free alternatives); 1 cup heavy cream (can swap for dairy-free alternatives); 0.5 cup light brown sugar (regular sugar works, but flavor will differ); 2 tbsp unsalted butter (can replace with dairy-free margarine); 2 tbsp cornstarch (arrowroot powder can be a suitable alternative); 1 tbsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste; 0.25 cup water (optional bourbon or rum) (alcohol enhances flavor)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of cinnamon swirling around me, I realized that the best comfort food can come from the most unexpected places—like those crusty pieces of stale bread sitting in my pantry. That’s how I came to create The Best Bread Pudding, a delightful dessert that transforms what could have been waste into a luxurious treat. It’s quick to prepare and serves perfectly as either a sweet finish to your dinner or a cozy breakfast indulgence. Infused with a creamy vanilla sauce, this recipe honors the essence of comfort food while bringing together rich flavors in every bite. Are you ready to turn that stale bread into something spectacular? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is This Bread Pudding So Special?

Comforting Twist: This recipe transforms stale bread into a luscious dessert that simply warms the soul.

Easy & Inviting: Perfect for beginners, you’ll find this recipe requires just a few simple steps to create something truly scrumptious.

Rich, Decadent Flavor: Infused with cinnamon and drizzled in a creamy vanilla sauce, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth with every bite.

Versatile Delicacy: Enjoy it as a dessert or elevate your breakfast game! Plus, feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or fruits for an extra burst of flavor.

Waste Not, Want Not: Embrace sustainability by giving new life to stale bread while creating a luxurious treat that’s sure to impress family and friends. For even more easy-to-follow recipes like this, check out my easy dessert ideas.

Best Bread Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding

Stale Bread – Using brioche or challah provides optimal taste and texture for the best bread pudding.
Whole Milk (2 cups) – Adds creaminess to the custard base; lower fat alternatives may affect the texture.
Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Provides sweetness; brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp) – Adds richness and moisture; can substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor; nutmeg can be a warm alternative for different spice notes.
Fine Sea Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness; feel free to use kosher salt instead.
Eggs (3 large) – Provides structure and sets the pudding; consider using flax eggs for a vegan version.
Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tbsp) – Intensifies sweetness and flavor; for extra richness, vanilla bean paste is a great substitute.

For the Vanilla Sauce

Whole Milk (1 cup) and Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a creamy, rich sauce; can swap for dairy-free alternatives.
Light Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Adds caramel notes; regular sugar works in a pinch, but the flavor will differ.
Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp) – Infuses richness into the sauce; can replace it with dairy-free margarine.
Cornstarch (2 tbsp) – Thickens the sauce; arrowroot powder can be a suitable alternative.
Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste (1 tbsp) – Amplifies the sweetness and flavor profile.
Water (¼ cup, optional bourbon or rum) – Helps dissolve the cornstarch; the alcohol enhances flavor and adds depth.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As it heats, grease an 8-inch square baking dish with a touch of butter or non-stick spray. This step ensures that once the Best Bread Pudding is baked, it will slide out effortlessly for serving.

Step 2: Heat Milk Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, and fine sea salt over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until the butter melts completely and it reaches a steaming point—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Remove it from heat and let it cool for a few minutes, inviting rich aromas into your kitchen.

Step 3: Prepare Bread Cubes
While the milk mixture cools, tear your stale bread into bite-sized cubes and place them evenly in your greased baking dish. It’s best to use brioche or challah for the ultimate texture. The cubes should fill the dish nicely, creating a base for your decadent bread pudding.

Step 4: Combine Eggs and Milk
In a separate bowl, whisk the large eggs until well beaten. Once your milk mixture is cool enough, gradually pour it into the bowl of eggs while continuing to whisk. This technique prevents the eggs from cooking. Finally, add the pure vanilla extract and mix thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.

Step 5: Soak Bread Mixture
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. Gently press down the bread with a spatula to help it absorb the custard. Allow it to soak for 20-30 minutes, giving the bread time to soak in the creamy goodness before baking.

Step 6: Bake the Pudding
After soaking, place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake the Best Bread Pudding for about 40-45 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around.

Step 7: Prepare Vanilla Sauce
While the bread pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat together whole milk, heavy cream, light brown sugar, and unsalted butter over medium heat until steaming. Stir occasionally to combine all ingredients and achieve a luscious sauce for drizzling.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water or optional bourbon, creating a smooth mixture. Whisk this into the steaming milk mixture, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a lovely consistency. Stir in your choice of vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for that special touch.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Best Bread Pudding has baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm drizzled with your creamy vanilla sauce. This comforting dish is sure to become a favorite in your home, inviting smiles with every indulgent bite.

Best Bread Pudding Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around and customize this delightful bread pudding to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and cream with oat milk and coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free sauce.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a deliciously accommodating dessert that everyone can enjoy.
Fruit-Filled: Add fresh berries or sliced bananas to the bread mixture for a fruity burst of flavor. They will bake beautifully, blending sweet and tart notes!
Nutty Add-In: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for that lovely crunch and extra depth of flavor in each bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips alongside the bread for a decadent twist; the result will be a heavenly creation that’s hard to resist.
Spice it Up: Switch ground cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice or ginger for a warm and lively flavor profile.
Boozy Delight: Enhance the vanilla sauce with bourbon or rum for a sophisticated touch that elevates your dessert experience.
Caramel Sauce: Swap vanilla sauce for a homemade caramel sauce to achieve a sweet and sticky indulgence that pairs beautifully with the pudding.

For more delicious twists, check out my easy dessert ideas that will surely inspire your creativity in the kitchen.

What to Serve with The Best Bread Pudding

The perfect accompaniment can elevate your freshly baked treat into an unforgettable meal experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm bread pudding, enhancing its rich flavors and providing a delightful temperature contrast.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, adding a dollop of whipped cream offers a refreshing contrast and complements the pudding’s warm, custardy texture perfectly.
Fresh Berries: A mix of raspberries or blueberries adds a burst of tartness that cuts through the sweetness, creating a balanced dessert that feels indulgent and refreshing.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzled over the top, this sweet and buttery caramel sauce takes the decadence of bread pudding to new heights, adding a luscious, sticky finish.
Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts provide a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft pudding, adding another layer of flavor.
Espresso: Serve a shot of rich espresso alongside the pudding for a delightful wake-up call to your taste buds. The bold coffee flavor contrasts with the pudding’s sweetness, making a perfect after-dinner pairing.
Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai brings in comforting spices that complement the cinnamon notes in the pudding, creating a heartwarming experience.
Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, drizzling some warm chocolate sauce elevates the pudding to a whole new level of indulgence, making it a surefire hit.
Bourbon Cream Sauce: Enhance the dessert with a bourbon-infused cream sauce for added richness, infusing delightful warmth that echoes the flavors in the pudding.
Nutmeg Sprinkles: A light dusting of ground nutmeg on top before serving provides an aromatic finish that complements the whole dish, inviting a cozy sensory experience.

Expert Tips

Ideal Bread Choice: Use stale bread like brioche or challah for the best texture; avoid fresh bread to prevent a soggy pudding.
Proper Soaking Time: Allow the bread to soak for 20–30 minutes before baking to ensure it absorbs the custard fully for a creamy outcome.
Cool Custard Mix: Always cool the milk mixture before adding eggs; hot milk can cook the eggs, leading to a grainy custard.
Check for Doneness: Bake the pudding until golden brown and a knife comes out clean from the center to confirm it’s perfectly cooked.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add chocolate chips or dried fruits to enhance the flavor, but remember not to overload the bread to maintain structure.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Best Bread Pudding creations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the stale bread cubes up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. To do this, simply follow the initial steps up to the soaking process, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven, bake the pudding as directed, and don’t forget to whip up that heavenly vanilla sauce before plating. This makes the Best Bread Pudding just as delicious, giving you a comforting dessert with minimal effort, even on your busiest weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Best Bread Pudding

Fridge: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Best Bread Pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pudding overnight in the fridge. Reheat slices in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Reheating: To revive the flavors, consider drizzling a little extra vanilla sauce over the pudding while reheating for added richness.

Best Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

What kind of bread is best for this pudding?
Absolutely! For the best bread pudding, I highly recommend using stale brioche or challah. These breads provide an exceptional texture and flavor. If you only have fresh bread, allow it to sit out for several hours or lightly toast it to help it absorb the custard better.

How should I store leftovers from the Best Bread Pudding?
You’ll want to cover any leftovers and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the pudding has cooled completely before sealing it. This helps retain its delicious flavor and creamy texture.

Can I freeze the Best Bread Pudding?
Very! You can freeze this decadent dessert for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the pudding overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat bread pudding?
To heat it up, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices of your Best Bread Pudding in an oven-safe dish, and if desired, drizzle a tad bit of that lovely vanilla sauce over the top to enhance the flavors. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Any tips for avoiding a soggy bread pudding?
Absolutely! To avoid a soggy outcome, ensure that you let the bread soak in the custard mixture for about 20-30 minutes before baking. This allows the bread to absorb just the right amount of custard. Additionally, using stale bread helps maintain structure and texture in your pudding, preventing it from becoming too mushy.

Can pets eat bread pudding?
It’s best not to share bread pudding with pets. The ingredients, especially sugar and dairy, aren’t suitable for them and could cause digestive issues. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet!