How To Make White Bread Pudding: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need!

Indulge in the comforting embrace of homemade white bread pudding, a classic dessert that evokes nostalgic memories. This step-by-step guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to create this delectable treat in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Gathering the Ingredients

• 1 loaf (1 pound) of white bread, cubed
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Butter, for greasing the dish

Preparing the Bread

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Cube the white bread and spread it evenly in the prepared dish.

Creating the Custard

• In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins (if using).
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
• Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes.

Soaking the Bread

• Let the bread cubes soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard and become moist and flavorful.

Baking the Pudding

• Bake the bread pudding in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooling and Serving

• Let the bread pudding cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Variations and Tips

• Chocolate Bread Pudding: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a chocolatey twist.
• Fruit Bread Pudding: Add 1 cup of chopped fresh or frozen fruit, such as berries or peaches, to the bread cubes.
• Savory Bread Pudding: Use savory bread cubes and add herbs or cheese to the custard mixture.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the bread pudding up to 24 hours ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Freezing: Freeze baked bread pudding for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

The Joy of Homemade Bread Pudding

Indulge in the comforting warmth of freshly baked white bread pudding. Its tender texture, rich custard, and nostalgic flavor will transport you to a place of pure culinary bliss. Whether you enjoy it as a simple dessert or elevate it with variations, this classic treat will forever hold a special place in your heart.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use any type of bread for bread pudding?
A: Yes, you can use any type of bread you like, but white bread creates a classic and light texture.

Q: Can I make bread pudding without raisins?
A: Yes, raisins are optional. You can omit them or substitute them with other dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots.

Q: How do I know when the bread pudding is done baking?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the pudding. If it comes out clean, the pudding is done.

Q: Can I reheat bread pudding?
A: Yes, you can reheat bread pudding in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: How do I store leftover bread pudding?
A: Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.