A cozy kitchen filled with the rich aroma of vanilla and cinnamon is like a warm hug on a cold winter day. Imagine sinking your spoon into a bowl of velvety bread pudding, each bite melting in your mouth with creamy goodness. This is the kind of dish that wraps around you like your favorite blanket.
As I recall the first time I attempted this bread pudding recipe, I can still hear the laughter of my family as they eagerly awaited the sweet treat. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted to create something special to share together. The anticipation built as the pudding baked in the oven, filling our home with a scent that felt like pure joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This irresistible bread pudding recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.
- The warm flavors make it perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
- Visually appealing when served warm with a drizzle of sauce, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
- Its versatility allows you to use leftover bread or customize it with fruits and spices.
I remember one holiday dinner where my aunt brought her famous bread pudding; it was so good we almost fought over the last piece!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Day-Old Bread: Use any type of stale bread you have on hand; French or brioche work wonderfully.
- Milk: Whole milk adds richness; however, feel free to swap in almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pudding perfectly; adjust based on your taste preference.
- Eggs: These act as the binder and give structure; use large eggs for best results.
- Cinnamon: A must-have spice that brings warmth and flavor to each delightful bite.
- Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for an aromatic sweetness that elevates the dish.
- Butter: A touch of melted butter enhances flavor and provides a beautiful golden crust.
- Optional Add-ins (e.g., raisins or nuts): Feel free to add any fruits or nuts you enjoy for extra texture and flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray for easy release.
Cubing the Bread: Tear or cut your day-old bread into cubes about one inch big. This helps them soak up all that delicious custard.
Create the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-combined.
Add Bread Cubes to Custard: Gently fold your cubed bread into the custard mixture until all pieces are coated evenly. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb those flavors.
Bake it Up!: Pour everything into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes until set and golden brown on top.
Cool & Serve!: Once baked, let your masterpiece cool slightly before serving warm. Drizzle with caramel sauce or whipped cream if desired—enjoy every bite!
This delicious bread pudding recipe is not just a treat; it’s an experience waiting to happen! You’ll love how easy it is to make this comforting classic while delighting friends and family alike at any occasion.
You Must Know
- Bread pudding is a nostalgic dessert that transforms stale bread into a warm, comforting treat.
- The delightful combination of custard and spices creates a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the bread with the custard mixture, letting it soak well before baking for even texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment! Swap out regular milk for almond milk or add chocolate chips, raisins, or cinnamon for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best texture, let the bread soak in the custard longer.
- Avoid using overly sweet bread; it can overpower the dish.
- For an extra golden crust, broil briefly at the end of baking.
I remember the first time I made bread pudding for friends; their faces lit up as they took a bite. It felt like I had unearthed a hidden treasure from my grandma’s recipe book.
FAQ
What type of bread works best for this bread pudding recipe?
Use day-old baguette or brioche for optimal flavor and texture in your bread pudding.
Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day before and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How do I know when my bread pudding is done baking?
Check if it’s set and golden brown on top, usually after about 45-50 minutes in the oven.
Irresistible Bread Pudding Recipe for Cozy Nights
Indulge in this easy and comforting bread pudding recipe, featuring rich custard and warm spices, perfect for cozy nights and gatherings.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 2 cups whole milk (or almond milk)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup raisins or nuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cube the day-old bread into one-inch pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold the cubed bread into the custard mixture until evenly coated; let sit for 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden brown on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with your favorite sauce if desired.
Notes
- Experiment with different types of bread like brioche or baguette for varied flavors.
- For added richness, consider using half-and-half instead of milk.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
