Description

A warm and comforting dessert classic, this bread pudding features cubes of buttery bread soaked in a rich vanilla custard spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Baked until golden with a custardy center and crisp edges, it’s the perfect way to transform day-old bread into something magical. Serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate comfort dessert. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

Scale

6–7 cups day-old bread, cubed (brioche, challah, French bread)
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons melted butter (for dotting on top)
Optional: 1/2 cup raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cube bread and place into a large bowl. If bread is soft, toast it briefly in the oven.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
Pour custard over bread cubes and gently toss to coat. Let soak for 20–30 minutes.
Fold in optional mix-ins like raisins or chocolate chips.
Transfer to baking dish. Dot the top with melted butter.
Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and set in the center.
Cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with ice cream or sauce if desired.

Notes

For crispier edges, bake uncovered. For a softer texture, cover loosely with foil during the first 30 minutes.

The richer the bread, the more indulgent the pudding—brioche is a favorite.

Soaking time enhances flavor and consistency. Don’t skip it if you can help it.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 310