Bread (And Cookie) Pudding
Bread (and Cookie) Pudding is a comforting dessert featuring cubed bread or cookies soaked in a vanilla-spiced custard. Creamy and rich, it pairs well with ice cream and suits those seeking a warm, nostalgic treat or an easy-to-make dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs gently without overbeating.
- Add sugar, salt, nutmeg, and vanilla; blend well.
- Add cubed bread, cookies, or cake; stir. Place a saucer on top to weigh down and prevent floats.
- Cook in the top of a double boiler with barely simmering water until a table knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream for each serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using flavored coffee cream instead of regular half and half. If you don't have half and half, you can substitute with equal parts milk and heavy cream. Ensure your bread is stale for the best texture; day-old bread works perfectly. If you want a sweeter touch, add chocolate chips or dried fruits to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
This bread pudding is delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. For added flavor, drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce. It makes a wonderful dessert after a cozy dinner, and pairs beautifully with Alda'S Pecan Pie for a comforting meal. Fresh berries can also be a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a splash of cream before reheating can help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bread (And Cookie) Pudding contains roughly 366 calories, with 5g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 620mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
While stale bread absorbs the custard better, you can use fresh bread if necessary. To mimic the texture, let the fresh bread sit out for a few hours to dry out slightly or toast it lightly before cubing.
What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes, or use 1/4 cup of applesauce per egg.
How can I add more flavor to the pudding?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or allspice, or incorporating citrus zest from lemons or oranges to enhance the flavor. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).