Description

Do you have a loaf of bread sitting on your counter that is starting to get a little too crunchy to eat? This Classic Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, turning simple pantry staples into a masterpiece. With its balance of warm cinnamon, creamy custard, and a decadent homemade caramel glaze, it’s a simple 1-pan wonder that tastes like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

6 to 8 cups stale bread cubes (Brioche, Challah, or French bread)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 large eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted and cooled
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Caramel Glaze:
1/2 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
A pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Cut bread into one-inch cubes. If fresh, toast at 300°F for 10 minutes to dry out.
Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, melted butter, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until combined.
The Soaking Process: Add bread cubes to the custard and press down to coat. Let sit for 20-30 minutes until saturated.
Bake: Pour into a greased 9×13 dish. Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until golden and set.
Prepare the Glaze: Melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan. Whisk in heavy cream for 3 minutes until thickened and glossy.
Assemble and Serve: Pour half the glaze over the warm pudding and serve the rest on the side. Garnish with powdered sugar or ice cream.

Notes

Use stale bread to ensure it soaks up the custard without becoming soggy. For a make-ahead version, assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate until ready to bake. Experiment with add-ins like raisins, chocolate chips, or pecans for extra texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Oven
Cuisine: American Comfort

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 145mg