Desserts

Classic Bread Pudding Recipe - Easy, Warm & Delicious

Name: Classic Bread Pudding Recipe - Easy, Warm & Delicious
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups day-old bread; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 large eggs; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

This bread pudding recipe is the ultimate comfort dessert. With warm spices, a custard base, and golden-baked bread, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 min

Cook Time 45 min

Total Time 75 min

Servings 8

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Recipe by Bake the World Published on December 5, 2025

This bread pudding recipe is the ultimate comfort dessert. With warm spices, a custard base, and golden-baked bread, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

Ingredients for Bread pudding recipe

4 cups day-old bread (cut into 1-inch cubes; brioche or challah recommended)
2 cups milk (whole milk for best results)
1 cup heavy cream
4 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, plus extra for greasing the pan)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bread pudding recipe

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Tip: Use a ceramic or glass dish for even baking and easy cleanup.
Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Tip: Whisk the eggs thoroughly to avoid streaks of egg whites in the custard.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for 20-30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
Tip: Gently toss the bread cubes halfway through soaking for even absorption.
Transfer the soaked bread mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle a little melted butter over the top for a golden crust.
Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle a handful of sugar over the top before baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
Tip: Cover the dish with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Remove from the oven and let the bread pudding cool for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to set completely.
Tip: Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips & Notes for Bread pudding recipe

Use stale bread for the best texture—fresh bread can become too mushy.
Adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the sugar slightly.
Let the bread soak for at least 20 minutes to absorb the custard.
Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly during baking.
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating for Bread pudding recipe

Storage: Bread pudding stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dessert. At room temperature, it can sit out for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the pudding to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Bread pudding can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

For reheating, the oven is your best bet to maintain a fresh-baked texture. Cover the pudding with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, though the texture may become slightly softer. To restore a crisp top, broil briefly or use a kitchen torch.

What to Serve With This for Bread pudding recipe

Vanilla Ice Cream
The cold, creamy ice cream pairs perfectly with warm bread pudding.
Caramel Sauce
A rich, buttery caramel sauce enhances the pudding’s flavor.
Fresh Fruit
Adds a refreshing, tart contrast to the sweet pudding.

Frequently Asked Questions for Bread pudding recipe

Can I use any type of bread for this bread pudding recipe?

Yes! Sturdy, day-old bread like brioche, challah, or French bread works best as it absorbs the custard without falling apart.

How do I know when bread pudding is done?

The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. A knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.

Can I make this bread pudding recipe ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the pudding and refrigerate it unbaked overnight. Bake it the next day for fresh results.

How do I prevent bread pudding from being soggy?

Use day-old bread, let it soak thoroughly in the custard, and bake until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.

What toppings go well with bread pudding?

Caramel sauce, whipped cream, fresh berries, or ice cream are excellent choices to enhance the flavor.

Can I make this bread pudding recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

What’s the best way to reheat bread pudding?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil, to maintain its texture and flavor.