There’s something magical about bread pudding—the way humble, day-old bread transforms into a warm, custardy delight with just a few simple ingredients. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert, rich with the flavors of vanilla, cinnamon, and butter, baked to golden perfection.
Whether served fresh from the oven or chilled overnight, each bite is a nostalgic hug in dessert form. This classic bread pudding is special because it’s effortless to make and doesn’t let leftover bread go to waste.
It’s also incredibly versatile—swap out the raisins for chocolate chips, add a drizzle of caramel, or top it with a scoop of homemade Strawberry Ice Cream for a fruity contrast. And if you’re hosting a gathering, pair it with a refreshing Strawberry Party Punch to balance the richness.
Bread pudding is trending again, thanks to the rise of zero-waste cooking and our love for simple, homemade treats. According to food waste studies, nearly 900,000 tons of bread are wasted each year globally.
Recipes like this not only satisfy cravings but also help reduce waste in the most delicious way possible. So, grab your leftover bread, a few pantry staples, and get ready to bake a dessert that’s both heartwarming and practical. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Why This Is My Go-To Recipe?
- It’s ridiculously easy: No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- The texture is unreal: Soft and custardy inside, golden and slightly crisp on top, it’s the perfect balance.
- It’s a great way to use leftover bread: Waste less, enjoy more—this recipe turns stale bread into something extraordinary.
- You can make it your own: Add chocolate, nuts, or different fruits to match your mood.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser: Serve it at brunch, dessert, or even as a sweet breakfast treat—it never disappoints!
Bread Pudding Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking dish (8×8-inch or similar)
- Oven
- Spatula or Spoon
Ingredients
- 6 slices day-old bread torn into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup raisins Optional
- 2 cups milk
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 4 large eggs beaten
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- Tear day-old bread into small pieces and place them in the dish. Drizzle melted butter over the bread.
- Sprinkle raisins evenly over the bread (optional).
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until well combined.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the bread and let it soak for 5 minutes.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 165kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Sugar | 19g |
| Sodium | 140mg |
Flavor-Packed Variations You Haven’t Tried Yet!
If you’ve already mastered the basics of bread pudding, it’s time to level up! Here are some unique, expert-approved variations to make this classic dessert even more exciting:
- Croissant or Brioche Upgrade – Swap plain bread for buttery croissants or brioche for a richer, more indulgent texture. The flaky layers absorb the custard beautifully!
- Brown Butter & Sage Twist – Cook the butter until golden brown and add a hint of fresh sage for a nutty, slightly savory depth that balances the sweetness.
- Espresso Infusion – Mix a shot of espresso into the custard for a subtle coffee kick—perfect for pairing with a late-night cup of joe!
- Rum-Soaked Raisins – Instead of plain raisins, soak them in dark rum or bourbon for 30 minutes before adding them to the dish. It adds a warm, boozy note that feels restaurant-worthy.
- Cardamom & Rose Water Elegance – Add a pinch of cardamom and a splash of rose water to the custard for a floral, spiced flavor inspired by Middle Eastern desserts.
- Toasted Coconut & Pineapple Delight – Fold in shredded toasted coconut and chopped pineapple for a tropical twist—almost like a piña colada in dessert form.
- Savory Parmesan & Herb Version – Skip the sugar and vanilla, and instead add grated Parmesan, fresh thyme, and black pepper for a sophisticated, cheese-forward dish that works as a side or brunch option.
- Molasses & Gingerbread Spiced Holiday Special – Stir in a tablespoon of molasses, ground ginger, and nutmeg for a festive, holiday-inspired treat that smells like a bakery in December.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
