This is one of those simple desserts you can throw together without stress. It uses basic ingredients you probably already have, and it’s perfect for turning leftover bread into something warm and comforting.
If your days are packed and you still want a homemade dessert, this bread pudding is a great go-to. It’s quick to prep, easy to bake, and always comes out soft, sweet, and satisfying.
Bread pudding is a baked dessert made from stale bread soaked in a sweet milk and egg mixture. As it bakes, the top turns lightly golden while the inside stays soft and creamy. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for using up bread that’s about to go to waste.
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 45 min
Total Time: 50 min
Ingredients
- 6 slices stale bread (about 4–5 cups, broken into pieces)
- 3 tablespoons butter (1 tbsp + 2 tbsp)
- 4 eggs (beaten)
- 2 cups milk
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Raisins (optional, skip if your kids don’t like them)
Optional Brown Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter. This keeps everything from sticking and adds flavor.
- Break the bread into chunks and place them in the dish. No need to be perfect, just try to keep the pieces close in size.
- Melt the remaining butter and drizzle it over the bread.
- In a bowl, mix the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the bread. Press the bread down gently so it soaks up the liquid. Let it sit for a minute if you have time.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly firm when touched.
Optional Brown Butter Sauce
If you have a few extra minutes, this simple sauce adds a nice finish.
- Melt butter in a small pan over medium heat.
- Let it cook until it turns slightly golden and smells rich.
- Add brown sugar and milk or cream.
- Whisk for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Drizzle over each serving or pour it over the whole dish before serving.
Pro Tips for Busy Days
- If you do not have stale bread, toast fresh bread in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out.
- You can prepare everything the night before and bake it the next day.
- Skip raisins if your kids do not like them, or swap with chocolate chips.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Reheat in the microwave for a quick dessert
- Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge
Nutrition Info
- Calories: about 316 per serving
- Protein: 9g
- Carbs: 43g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
These values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients you use.
Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.