Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe

Introduction

Old fashioned bread pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert—its custardy texture and sweetly spiced flavor make it a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing classic. Whether you have leftover bread to use up or want to create a satisfying dessert from pantry staples, this recipe embodies simplicity, affordability, and unbeatable flavor.

Its golden top and melt-in-the-mouth interior, kissed with vanilla and cinnamon, deliver both warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive celebrations, bread pudding promises not just dessert, but memories.

What Makes This Bread Pudding Special?

This recipe stands out for its rich, custardy texture and the irresistible contrast between the caramelized top and soft interior. The addition of aromatic spices gives a heartwarming touch, while a simple vanilla custard binds everything together.

Not only is this treat delicious hot or cold, but it’s also highly versatile—decorate it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream for elevated elegance. Its preparation demands minimal effort, especially when using day-old bread, turning waste into a decadent dessert.

How to Prepare the Custard and Bread Base

Begin with thick, slightly dry bread—French, brioche, or challah work perfectly. Tear or cube the bread for maximum custard absorption. For even cubes, use a sturdy Bamboo Cutting Board to keep your workspace neat.

Prepare the custard by whisking together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Ensuring a consistent blend is crucial—opt for the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender to effortlessly combine your liquids and spices to a silky perfection.

Baking and Serving Tips

Layer your custard-soaked bread in a parchment-lined baking dish. Using Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll makes for easy cleanup and helps prevent sticking, ensuring beautiful slices every time.

Bake until the top is golden and the pudding is just set—you’ll want a gentle jiggle in the center. Remove from the oven using a set of heat-resistant KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitts to keep your hands safe.

For serving, dust with powdered sugar, add a scoop of whipped cream, or pour over a simple vanilla sauce. Leftovers store easily in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, making this a make-ahead delight for busy schedules.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This old fashioned bread pudding recipe yields about 8–10 servings. Each portion typically contains 250–350 calories, depending on the bread and toppings you choose. While decadent, it’s a wholesome treat best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence.

Old Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe (Recap)

Classic bread pudding delivers a heartwarming combination of crisp, golden crust and custardy interior, accented with warm spices. Its straightforward method makes it accessible for all skill levels, while its timeless appeal guarantees it’s always a hit.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy release and cleanup.
2. Add cubed bread to a large mixing bowl. If desired, add raisins and toss to combine.
3. In a blender such as the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Blend until smooth.
4. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure all bread pieces are soaked. Let stand for 10–15 minutes so the bread can absorb the liquid.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, then cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes or until the pudding is set and the top is golden.
7. Remove carefully from the oven using heat-safe KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitts. Cool slightly before serving.
8. Slice and serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a scoop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Store any leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

This old fashioned bread pudding transforms humble ingredients into a memorable dessert that’s both comforting and timeless.