Warm, soft, and beautifully comforting, this classic bread pudding transforms simple day-old bread into a rich custard dessert with golden edges and a tender center. Flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg, it’s a timeless homemade favorite perfect for breakfast, dessert, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch pieces
(white, farmhouse, or egg bread work best) - 3 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Extra butter for greasing the dish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dish
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly butter a 2-quart baking dish (about 8×11 inches).
Place the dish on a baking sheet for easier handling.
2. Add the Bread
Pile the bread pieces into the buttered baking dish.
👉 The uneven, craggy top helps create crispy golden edges during baking.
3. Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- milk
- eggs
- granulated sugar
- brown sugar
- vanilla
- cinnamon
- nutmeg
- salt
- melted butter
Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
4. Soak the Bread
Pour the custard evenly over the bread.
Gently press the bread down with a spoon or spatula so all pieces absorb the liquid.
Let stand for 10–15 minutes to soak thoroughly.
5. Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes, until:
- top is golden brown
- center is set
- edges are lightly crisp
A knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
6. Cool Slightly & Serve
Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Serve warm.
Serving Ideas
- Warm caramel sauce
- Vanilla sauce
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- Powdered sugar
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✔ Cozy and nostalgic
- ✔ Soft custardy center
- ✔ Crispy golden top
- ✔ Great way to use leftover bread
- ✔ Easy and budget-friendly
Tips for Best Results
- Day-old bread absorbs custard better
- Rich breads like brioche or challah make it extra luxurious
- Don’t skip the soaking time
- Bake until just set to avoid dryness
Variations
- Add raisins or dried fruit
- Mix in chocolate chips
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts
- Use bourbon sauce for a Southern twist
Storage
- Fridge: Up to 4 days
- Reheat gently in microwave or oven
- Delicious cold or warm
Conclusion
This old-fashioned bread pudding is rich, simple, and deeply comforting. With its creamy custard base and golden cinnamon-spiced top, it’s the kind of timeless dessert that always feels like home.
