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Best Bread Pudding

Classic Bread Pudding Recipe

Emily Hartwell
This Classic Bread Pudding Recipe is warm, soft, and full of sweet flavor. It is a great way to use leftover or stale bread instead of throwing it away. The bread soaks in a creamy milk and egg mixture, then bakes until golden on top. You can enjoy it for dessert or even for a sweet breakfast.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 People
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups stale bread cut into cubes (brioche or challah works best)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup raisins optional

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the bread cubes in a baking dish. If your bread is fresh, bake it in the oven for 10 minutes to dry it slightly.
    bread cubes in tray

Step 2: Make the Custard

  • In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, eggs, egg yolks, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
    make the pudding

Step 3: Combine

  • Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Press the bread gently so it soaks up the liquid. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Add raisins if using.
    Add raisins and custard

Step 4: Bake

  • Brush melted butter over the top. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
    Best Bread Pudding

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  • Let it cool for about 20 minutes before serving. Serve warm.
    Best Bread Pudding

Notes

Optional Add-Ins

You can make this recipe your own by adding:
  • Chopped nuts
  • Chocolate chips
  • Dried cranberries
  • Caramel drizzle
  • Vanilla sauce

How to Store

  • Let the pudding cool completely. Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes until warm.