Soft baked bread soaked in a warm, creamy custard turns this classic dessert into a comforting winter favorite meant to be served warm.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Ingredients
4 cups day-old bread, cut into large cubes
2 cups whole milk
3 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
Place the bread cubes evenly in a buttered baking dish, spreading them out so they form a loose, even layer.
In a bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
Pour the custard mixture slowly over the bread, making sure all pieces are soaked. Press the bread gently down so it absorbs the liquid evenly.
Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set but still soft.
Remove from the oven and let rest briefly before serving warm.
Nutrition Facts (approx, per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 9g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 12g
Tips
Using slightly stale bread helps the custard absorb evenly and prevents a soggy texture.
Covering loosely with foil halfway through baking keeps the top from browning too quickly.
Allowing a short rest after baking helps the pudding set while staying soft inside.
Variations
Adding raisins or chopped dates directly to the bread before pouring the custard brings natural sweetness and a soft texture throughout the pudding. As the dessert bakes, the fruit absorbs the custard and becomes tender, creating small bursts of flavor without changing the structure of the recipe. For another cozy treat that features nostalgic, soft textures, you might enjoy this Lemon Bars: A Classic Citrus Dessert with a sweet and tangy finish.
For a richer and creamier interior, half of the milk can be replaced with heavy cream. This adjustment makes the custard thicker and more luxurious while keeping the classic balance between a soft center and a lightly baked top. If creamy, comforting textures are your thing, take a look at this Strawberry Lasagna Dessert, which layers sweetness and creaminess in a no-bake format.
To enhance serving without altering the bake, the bread pudding can be finished with a warm vanilla sauce or a light caramel drizzle. Added just before serving, this extra layer boosts comfort and moisture while preserving the traditional character of the dessert.