Get ready to transport yourself to a cozy Southern kitchen with this irresistible Old Fashioned Bread Pudding that's been warming hearts and satisfying sweet cravings for generations! This isn't just a dessert - it's a nostalgic journey through rich culinary traditions, where humble ingredients transform into a decadent treat that will have everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious home cook, this recipe promises to deliver comfort in every single spoonful.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups bread, cubed
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Take day-old bread and cut into 1-inch cubes. Stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard mixture more effectively.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well combined.
- Add the melted butter to the egg mixture and whisk thoroughly to incorporate.
- Place bread cubes in the prepared baking dish and sprinkle raisins evenly across the bread if using.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, gently pressing down to ensure all bread is saturated and absorbing the liquid.
- Let the bread pudding sit for 10-15 minutes to allow bread to fully absorb the custard mixture.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 15 minutes before serving. Can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Optional: Serve with vanilla sauce, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
Tips
- • Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture and absorption • Gently press bread cubes to ensure they're fully saturated with the custard mixture • Let the pudding rest 10-15 minutes before baking to maximize flavor infusion • Check doneness by ensuring the center is set and the top is golden brown • Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices for variety • Serve warm with vanilla sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence • Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain moisture
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 344kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 120mg
