Print

The Best Bread Pudding Recipe

4.4 from 47 reviews

This classic bread pudding recipe features tender cubes of French bread soaked in a rich mixture of eggs, milk, cream, and warm spices, baked to perfection and topped with a luscious vanilla sauce. Perfect for a comforting dessert that serves a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread Pudding

  • 1 (16 oz) loaf French bread, cut into 1“-2” squares
  • 5 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Vanilla Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the bread pudding evenly.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a 9″x13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and aid in easy serving.
  3. Cut Bread: Cut the French bread into 1″ to 2″ squares and place them into a large mixing bowl.
  4. Mix Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined.
  5. Soak Bread: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and gently stir to coat all pieces. Let it soak for about 20 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid thoroughly.
  6. Bake: Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish in an even layer. Bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
  7. Prepare Vanilla Sauce Base: In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and heavy cream until fully combined and smooth.
  8. Cook Sauce: Place the saucepan on medium heat and add the butter. Heat while stirring until the butter melts and the mixture begins to boil gently.
  9. Thicken Sauce: Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for a rich flavor.
  10. Serve: Pour the warm vanilla sauce over slices of the baked bread pudding when serving.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for best absorption and texture in the pudding.
  • Letting the bread soak well in the custard ensures a moist and tender pudding.
  • For a nuttier flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the bread mixture.
  • The vanilla sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
  • Keep an eye on the pudding while baking to avoid overcooking and drying out the edges.

Keywords: bread pudding, dessert, French bread, vanilla sauce, custard dessert, baked pudding