Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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There's something undeniably comforting about Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding. It’s a cozy dessert perfect for chilly nights or when you need to use up that loaf of bread sitting on your counter. This version is simple, satisfying, and full of nostalgia.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

Bread: Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard without getting mushy. It’s the backbone of this pudding, giving it texture and body.

Whole milk: Provides creaminess to the custard, making the pudding rich and moist.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dish, balancing out the spices and enhancing the vanilla flavor.

Eggs: Help to set the custard, giving the pudding structure.

Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: These spices bring a cozy, aromatic warmth to the dish, making it perfect for fall and winter.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a slight buttery flavor to the pudding.

Raisins: Offer a sweet, chewy contrast to the soft, creamy pudding. Feel free to skip them if they're not your thing.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your bread is too fresh, cut it into cubes and let it dry out for a few hours or toast it slightly in the oven.
  • For a fun twist, add a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard for extra depth.
  • If you prefer a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This pudding is fantastic served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more decadent treat, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top. It’s also delightful with a side of fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of bread?
Yes! While white or French bread is traditional, you can use any bread you like, including brioche or challah for a richer pudding.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh the next day.

Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease an 8x8 inch baking dish with a bit of butter or a non-stick spray to ensure that lovely pudding doesn’t stick to the pan.

Spread your bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish. You want an even layer so every bite gets some of that delicious custard.

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure everything is well combined to create a smooth custard. Pour this mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly soaked.

Sprinkle the raisins over the top, then gently stir to distribute them evenly throughout the dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, which will help create a beautiful, golden crust as it bakes.

Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This rest time is crucial as it allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, ensuring a moist and flavorful pudding.

Once your oven is ready, bake the pudding for 45-50 minutes or until it’s set and the top has a lovely golden brown color. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows it to firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably have on hand.
  • A great way to use up leftover bread and reduce food waste.
  • Warm spices and vanilla make it fragrant and comforting.
  • Perfectly sweet, but not overwhelmingly so.
  • Versatile — customize with your favorite add-ins.

Ingredients

4 cups of day-old bread cubes
2 cups of whole milk
1 cup of granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg
1/4 cup of unsalted butter (melted)
1/2 cup of raisins

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
3. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the baking dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
5. Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
6. Sprinkle raisins over the top and gently stir to distribute evenly.
7. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the pudding.
8. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

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