There’s nothing quite like the aroma of classic bread pudding with vanilla custard wafting through your kitchen. Imagine warm, fluffy bread soaked in a sweet, creamy custard, baked to golden perfection. perfect pairing with bread pudding Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that transports you to a cozy café with a steaming cup of coffee. healthy mashed potato alternative cozy sweet potato hash.
I remember the first time I tasted this heavenly dessert at my grandmother’s house. It was the perfect ending to our family gatherings, and I can still hear her laughter as we fought over who would get the last slice. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a sunny brunch gathering, this classic dish creates lasting memories while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic bread pudding with vanilla custard is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any cooking level
- Its rich, comforting flavor profile will delight everyone at your table
- The visually appealing golden crust paired with creamy custard makes for an irresistible treat
- Versatile enough to enjoy warm or cold, it’s a dessert for all occasions
I still remember my friends’ faces when they first tried my bread pudding; they were hooked instantly and begged for the recipe. savory stuffed flank steak
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Stale Bread: Use day-old bread for the best texture; it absorbs the custard beautifully without getting mushy.
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Milk: Whole milk works best for richness; feel free to substitute with almond or coconut milk if desired.
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Heavy Cream: Adding cream elevates the custard’s flavor and creaminess; don’t skip this step for maximum indulgence.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar provides the sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.
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Eggs: Use large eggs for binding and creating that luscious custard texture; they’re essential for the perfect bake.
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Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract to infuse deep flavor into your bread pudding; it’s worth it!
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Cinnamon: A touch of ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth; feel free to increase if you’re a spice lover.
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Raisins or Nuts (Optional): Add these for extra texture and flavor; they complement the sweetness perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray for easy serving later.
Prepare the Bread: Cut stale bread into cubes, about one inch each. Place them in a large mixing bowl so they can absorb all that delicious custard.
Mix Custard Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. This mixture should look smooth and creamy.
Add Bread to Custard Mixture: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently fold everything together until the bread is well-coated but not overly mushy; you want some texture!
Incorporate Optional Add-ins: If you’re using raisins or nuts, now’s the time to fold them gently into the mixture. They’ll add lovely bites of flavor throughout.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer your mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top and set in the middle. The aroma should fill your kitchen like a warm hug!
Once it’s baked to perfection, let it cool slightly before serving with warm vanilla custard poured generously on top. Your friends and family will be begging for seconds!
You’ve just created an unforgettable classic bread pudding with vanilla custard that will have everyone asking when you’ll make it again! Enjoy every bite! For more inspiration, check out this lemon cheesecake squares recipe.
You Must Know
- Classic bread pudding with vanilla custard is not just comfort food; it’s a warm hug on a plate
- The delightful combination of textures and flavors makes this dish an irresistible dessert that can bring back childhood memories with every bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by soaking your bread in the custard mixture to absorb all those delicious flavors before baking. This ensures a rich, creamy texture in every bite.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the bread for croissants or brioche for a more decadent twist. Toss in some chocolate chips or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid soggy bread pudding, use slightly stale bread for better absorption
- Let the custard mixture cool slightly before pouring it over the bread for even distribution
- Baking it until golden will give you that perfect crust on top
Baking this classic dish always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would fight over who got the last piece. The laughter and joy around the table made those moments unforgettable.

FAQ
What type of bread works best for classic bread pudding with vanilla custard?
Stale brioche, challah, or French bread are ideal for this recipe.
Can I make classic bread pudding with vanilla custard ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and bake right before serving.
How do I know when my bread pudding is done baking?
It should be golden brown on top and set in the center, usually about 45 minutes.
Classic Bread Pudding with Vanilla Custard
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- Author: Hellen
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Classic bread pudding with vanilla custard is a heartwarming dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy custard and soft, fluffy bread. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed warm on a chilly evening or served cold at a brunch gathering. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 cups stale bread, cubed
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine stale bread cubes with the custard mixture made by whisking milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Gently fold the bread into the custard until coated but not mushy.
- If desired, add raisins or nuts and mix lightly.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the center.
- Let cool slightly before serving with warm vanilla custard.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg





