Easy Bread Pudding – This Easy Bread Pudding is a classic dessert. That brings together simple ingredients like stale bread, eggs, milk, and sugar. To create a warm, comforting treat. With a hint of vanilla and cinnamon. This dish is perfect. To satisfy your sweet tooth. And making the most of leftover bread.
The first time I made this bread pudding. It was a spontaneous decision. Driven by the sight of a half-loaf of stale bread on my counter. My husband had his doubts. But after the first bite. He was hooked. My child loved it too. Especially with the optional brown sugar sauce drizzled on top. It’s now a family favorite. Especially on chilly evenings. When we crave something warm. And comforting.
What makes this Easy Bread Pudding truly special?
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can use any type of bread you have on hand. And it comes together in just under an hour. The optional brown sugar sauce. Adds a delightful crunch. And extra sweetness. Elevating this humble dessert. Into something truly special.
What You Need To Make This Easy Bread Pudding Recipe?
Stale Bread: The secret to great bread pudding is using stale bread. Which soaks up the custard. Without getting too mushy. You can use any type of bread—French bread, challah, or even leftover donuts. The staler, the better!
Butter: Adds richness. And flavor. While helping to crisp up the top layer. Drizzling melted butter over the bread before baking. Ensures every bite is decadent.
Eggs: Essential for the custard. Eggs give structure. And a creamy texture to the pudding. Be sure to beat them well. To ensure a smooth mix.
Milk: I prefer whole milk for a richer pudding. But any milk you have on hand will work. The milk blends with the eggs. To create that luscious custard we all love.
White Sugar: Sweetens the pudding just enough. Without overpowering the flavors of the bread and vanilla. You can adjust the amount. To your liking.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth. And depth to the pudding. Making it taste like a cozy, comforting hug.
Cinnamon: A classic spice. That gives a warm, inviting flavor. It’s the perfect partner to vanilla in this recipe.
Raisins (Optional): Raisins are a traditional addition. Bringing little bursts of sweetness throughout the pudding. Add them if you love a bit of chewy texture. In each bite.
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Steps To Make Easy Bread Pudding:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. And generously butter an 8-inch square baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter. Break the bread into the dish. Making larger pieces. For a heartier texture.
Step 2: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. And drizzle it over the bread. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Until well combined. Pour this mixture over the bread. Ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 3: Bake the pudding for about 45 minutes. Or until the top springs back. When lightly touched with a fork.
Step 4: For the optional brown sugar sauce. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter. In a small saucepan over high heat. Once melted, reduce the heat to medium. And let the butter brown slightly. Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla. Then remove from heat. Let it rest for a minute before whisking to combine. And pouring over the warm bread pudding.
Tip:
For a truly standout bread pudding. Use a mix of different types of bread. A combination of sweet breads like challah. Or brioche. With something more neutral like French bread. Creates a beautiful texture. And flavor contrast. Also, make sure your bread is really stale—day-old bread is ideal. If your bread isn’t quite there. You can lightly toast it in the oven before using it. Lastly, don’t skip the resting period after baking. Letting the pudding sit for a few minutes helps it set up. So you get perfect slices every time. And if you’re feeling indulgent. Drizzle on that optional brown sugar sauce. It adds a caramel-like richness. That’s absolutely irresistible.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?
Yes. You can use any type of stale bread. French bread, challah, or even leftover rolls work well.
How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
The bread pudding is ready when the top springs back. After lightly touching it with a fork. And it’s golden brown.
Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the bread pudding ahead of time. And store it in the fridge. When ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven. And bake as directed.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Easy Bread Pudding
Ingredients
- 6 slices stale bread or about 4-5 c broken bread pieces or cubes
- 3 tbsp butter 1 tbsp + 2 tbsp
- 4 beaten eggs
- 2 c milk
- ¾ c white sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Raisins optional
Optional Brown Sugar Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter salted or unsalted
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. And butter an 8-inch baking dish.
- Break the bread into pieces. And place them in the dish.
- Drizzle melted butter over the bread.
- In a bowl, mix eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the bread. Ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Bake for 45 minutes until the top is golden. And springs back when touched.
- (Optional) Prepare the brown sugar sauce: Melt butter, and stir in brown sugar and vanilla. And drizzle over the baked pudding.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
