Description
This classic bread pudding recipe is a comforting and delicious way to use day-old bread. Made with simple pantry staples like milk, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon, it bakes to a golden brown, custardy delight. Perfect for breakfast served warm with milk or as a dessert topped with ice cream or caramel sauce.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 6 slices day-old bread, torn into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Custard Mixture
- 2 cups milk
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread pudding bakes evenly.
- Assemble Bread Base: Place the torn pieces of bread into an 8-inch square baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the bread and sprinkle the raisins on top, if using.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, beaten eggs, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Soak Bread: Pour the custard mixture over the bread pieces in the baking dish. Gently press the bread with a fork to ensure all bread pieces are covered and fully soaked with the custard.
- Bake the Pudding: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and springs back lightly when pressed.
Notes
- Use rich egg bread, brioche, or challah for an especially moist and flavorful pudding.
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg or a splash of bourbon or rum extract to the custard mixture.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert option.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
