Name: Best Bread Pudding
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf (1–2 days old) of bread (French baguette, Sourdough, or Challah); 5 large eggs; 1/2 cup white sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup raisins (optional); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1/2 package cream cheese (softened to room temperature); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 3 cups powdered sugar; 5 tablespoons milk (or heavy whipping cream); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Description

A warm, comforting bread pudding made with day-old bread and a rich custard, perfect for family gatherings or holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf (1–2 days old) of bread (French baguette, Sourdough, or Challah)
5 large eggs
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 cups whole milk
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1/2 package cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
3 cups powdered sugar
5 tablespoons milk (or heavy whipping cream)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Start by cutting your loaf of bread into roughly 1-inch cubes.
Spray a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and spread the bread cubes evenly within.
In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix the ingredients until fully combined.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is covered. If using, sprinkle raisins evenly over the top.
Using a rubber spatula, toss the bread gently to coat and lightly press cubes under the custard.
Drizzle melted butter evenly atop the mixture.
Allow the bread to rest for at least 30 minutes or preferably overnight in the fridge.
Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake until the bread pudding is set and golden brown, about 45-55 minutes.

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider adding dark brown sugar or flavored extracts. Serving with ice cream or whipped cream enhances the experience.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: bread pudding, dessert, comfort food, baking, holiday dessert