Name: Indulgent Bread Pudding with Decadent Vanilla Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 4 cups cubed brioche or challah bread (Use leftover bread for best flavor and texture.); 4 large eggs (Add richness and help bind ingredients.); 1.75 cups whole milk (Full-fat for creamy consistency.); 0.75 cup heavy cream (Enhances richness.); 0.67 cup granulated sugar (Adjust sweetness to taste.); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (For aromatic flavor.); 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon (Adds warmth and spice.); 2 tablespoons melted butter (For a golden finish.); 0.25 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.); 3 tablespoons butter (For rich flavor.); 0.5 cup heavy cream (Creates a thick sauce.); 0.33 cup granulated sugar (Sweetens the sauce.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (For extra flavor.)

There’s something magical about the way warm bread pudding fills a room with nostalgia and warmth. As I stood in my kitchen the other day, surrounded by the sweet aroma of cinnamon and vanilla, I couldn’t help but think how comforting a homemade dish like this can be. This Bread Pudding recipe is perfect for anyone looking to put a cozy twist on dessert, and it comes together effortlessly! Not only does it make excellent use of leftover brioche or challah, but it also transforms the simplest ingredients into a show-stopping treat for your family and friends. You’ll love how this dish is truly a crowd-pleaser, plus it’s freezer-friendly for those busy days ahead. Ready to indulge in a slice of warmth and make new memories? Let’s dive in!

Why is Bread Pudding a Must-Try?

Comforting, Warm Delight: This bread pudding offers a cozy embrace that transports you to simpler times, filling your home with a delicious aroma as it bakes.

Decadent Vanilla Sauce: Topping it off with a rich vanilla sauce takes indulgence to another level, making every bite unforgettable.

Easy Prep: With just 20 minutes of prep, you'll have a delectable dessert ready to impress your loved ones.

Crowd-Pleasing Recipe: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to delight all ages, thanks to its familiar yet elevated flavors.

Using Leftovers: Transform stale brioche or challah into something extraordinary, reducing waste and creating mouthwatering results.

Elevate your dessert game with this luscious bread pudding and bring joy to your table!

Bread Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding
• 4 cups cubed brioche or challah bread – Use leftover bread for the best flavor and texture in your bread pudding.
• 4 large eggs – These add richness and help bind the ingredients together.
• 1 ¾ cups whole milk – Full-fat milk ensures a creamy consistency in every bite.
• ¾ cup heavy cream – The heavy cream enhances the overall richness of the pudding.
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the pudding; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Infuses the pudding with a delightful, aromatic flavor.
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and a hint of spice that complements the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter – This gives a lovely golden finish and additional flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.

For the Vanilla Sauce
• 3 tablespoons butter – A must for that rich, buttery flavor that melds beautifully in the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream – Creates a luxuriously thick sauce that drapes over the pudding perfectly.
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the sauce to pair wonderfully with the bread pudding.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds an extra pop of flavor to the sauce, tying it all together.

Now that you have all these delicious ingredients lined up, you're one step closer to enjoying the warmth and comfort of bread pudding! Get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering treat.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with cooking spray or a bit of butter, ensuring it’s well-coated to prevent sticking. This will help your indulgent bread pudding release easily once it’s baked to perfection.

Step 2: Cube and Toast the Bread
Next, cut the brioche or challah bread into 1-inch cubes for an even texture. If your bread isn’t stale, place the cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they’re slightly dry but not browned; this step intensifies their flavor in the final dish.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs, 1 ¾ cups of whole milk, and ¾ cup heavy cream. Add the ⅔ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Combine until smooth. This creamy custard will perfectly envelop your bread cubes, making the bread pudding rich and flavorful.

Step 4: Soak the Bread
Place the toasted bread cubes into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out for even soaking. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are drenched. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid. Allow it to soak for about 20 minutes; you’ll see the bread absorb the custard, creating a luscious base.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter evenly over the top of the soaked bread mixture, enhancing its golden crust. Cover the baking dish with foil to lock in moisture and prevent burning. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a delightful treat.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Remove the foil and continue baking the bread pudding for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden and the center is set but still moist. A gentle shake of the dish should reveal a firm yet soft texture inside, making this dessert a true standout.

Step 7: Make the Vanilla Sauce
While the bread pudding is finishing up, it’s time to prepare the decadent vanilla sauce. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir in ⅓ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup heavy cream, mixing constantly for about 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that perfect finishing flavor.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once your bread pudding is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Serve warm, drizzling the rich vanilla sauce over each slice. The soothing warmth and tantalizing flavors of this bread pudding will make it the centerpiece of any meal, lovingly bringing comfort to your table.

How to Store and Freeze Bread Pudding

Room Temperature: Let the bread pudding cool completely, then cover it loosely with aluminum foil or a clean kitchen towel. It can sit out for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.

Fridge: Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a cozy dessert.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices of bread pudding tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy every delightful bite of your bread pudding!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your bread pudding ahead of time can make meal planning a breeze! You can assemble the bread pudding up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1 through 4, then covering the baking dish with foil and refrigerating it. This allows the bread to soak up the custard mixture, enhancing the flavor. On the day you plan to serve it, simply take it out of the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, drizzle with melted butter, and bake as instructed (steps 5 and 6). To maintain quality, avoid baking until just before serving for perfectly fresh results that are just as delicious as if made the same day!

Expert Tips for Bread Pudding

Use Stale Bread: Stale brioche or challah works best, as it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy. If bread is fresh, toast it first.
Don't Rush Soaking: Allow the bread cubes to soak in the custard for at least 20 minutes. This is essential for achieving a deliciously moist texture.
Check Doneness: Ensure the center is set but still soft by gently shaking the dish. If it wobbles too much, bake for a few more minutes.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to customize the sweetness of your custard and sauce based on your preference. Taste and adjust sugar levels as you mix.
Make Ahead: Prepare and assemble your bread pudding a day in advance, then bake it just before serving to save time and enhance flavors.
Experiment with Flavors: For a twist, add dried fruits, chocolate chips, or nuts into the mixture for a personalized touch to your bread pudding.

What to Serve with Bread Pudding

Indulging in warm, comforting bread pudding creates a sweet moment that deserves to be complemented with delightful sides and drinks.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a burst of freshness, balancing the sweetness of the bread pudding perfectly.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of homemade whipped cream enhances every bite with its creamy texture and is a classic pairing.
Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla bean or rich caramel ice cream melts beautifully over the warm pudding, introducing a luxurious touch to your dessert.
Coffee: A steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee makes a delightful match, bringing out the cozy flavors of cinnamon and vanilla.
Spicy Apple Compote: The warm spices of apple compote complement the cinnamon in your bread pudding, creating a comforting flavor combination.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade caramel sauce over the top adds a rich sweetness that elevates your dessert experience.
Nutty Granola: For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle some nutty granola on top, adding a delightful texture and flavor variation.
Coconut Cream: Rich coconut cream offers a tropical touch, enhancing the dish’s warmth while providing a smooth, creamy layer.
Dried Fruits: Adding raisins or dried apricots into the bread pudding mix can infuse flavors that echo through every warm slice.

Bread Pudding Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and tailor this bread pudding recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute the brioche or challah with gluten-free bread for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy. Just ensure your mix of flours is hearty enough for soaking!
Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk and substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk. You’ll still achieve a rich and satisfying texture without the dairy!
Nutty Flavor: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the bread mixture for an added crunch and a nutty depth.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chunks into your custard mixture for a delightful twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Fruity Addition: Mix in 1 cup of diced apples or pears before baking for a delightful fruity flavor combined with warm spices. It’ll create a comforting, wholesome result everyone loves.
Spicy Kick: For some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the custard mixture. This unexpected twist will take the flavor profile to a whole new level!
Caramel Drizzle: Transform your vanilla sauce by adding ¼ cup of caramel sauce for a sweet caramelized flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pudding.
Cinnamon Raisin: Swap out some of the brioche with cinnamon raisin bread for a warm twist that's bursting with flavor and nostalgia. It's like a hug in dessert form!

Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best bread for my bread pudding?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for brioche or challah bread that is slightly stale. It soaks up the custard beautifully without becoming overly soggy. If your bread is fresh, toasting it at 300°F for about 10 minutes will help it dry out a bit, making it perfect for soaking in the delicious custard mixture.

How should I store leftover bread pudding?
Very importantly, once your bread pudding has cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for a cozy dessert experience!

Can I freeze bread pudding?
Certainly! To freeze bread pudding, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’s good for up to 2 months in the freezer—perfect for when the craving strikes unexpectedly! To enjoy later, thaw your slice in the fridge overnight and reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

What should I do if my bread pudding turns out too dry?
If your bread pudding comes out dry, next time try increasing the soaking time for the bread cubes in the custard mixture—ideally to about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the baking time as well; it should be baked until golden, but not overdone. Adding whole milk instead of reduced-fat milk can also enhance moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This bread pudding is rich in dairy, so if you’re cooking for someone with lactose intolerance, I’d recommend substituting with lactose-free milk and cream. For egg allergies, consider using a commercial egg replacer or ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg. Always check your ingredient labels, especially for gluten if modification is needed for celiac concerns.

Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble your bread pudding a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh just before serving—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves you time!