Homestyle Bread Pudding is one of those comforting dishes that wraps you in nostalgia. With its creamy interior and golden, slightly crisp top, it’s perfect for cozy nights when you need a little sweetness in your life. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover bread!
Bread is the heart of the pudding, providing structure and texture. Day-old bread works best because it absorbs the liquid mixture without becoming mushy. Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich, creamy base that soaks into the bread. Granulated sugar sweetens the pudding just right, while eggs help bind everything together. Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth, and ground cinnamon with nutmeg gives a cozy, aromatic flavor. A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors. The optional raisins provide bursts of sweetness, and butter drizzled on top helps create a lovely crust.
This bread pudding is delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For an extra touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to have the oven nice and hot before the pudding goes in. Take a 9x13 inch baking dish and grease it well to ensure nothing sticks. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Next, take your cubed bread and spread it evenly in the baking dish. Pour the milk mixture over the bread, making sure all pieces are soaked. Don’t rush this step; let it sit for about 10 minutes to ensure the bread absorbs all the delicious flavors. If you’re using raisins, now’s the time to sprinkle them evenly over the mixture. Finally, drizzle the melted butter over the top to help achieve a beautiful, golden crust.
Bake the pudding in your preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the pudding is set but still a bit wobbly in the center. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. This cooling time helps everything settle and makes it easier to serve.
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