Favorite Bread Pudding
A comforting bread pudding with raisins and warm spices, perfect for dessert or brunch, appealing to those who enjoy sweet, custardy treats with a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the bread slices in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the raisins over the bread.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl; add sugar, milk, vanilla, and nutmeg. Mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and raisins in the dish.
- Sprinkle a little more nutmeg on top.
- Set the baking dish in a pan of hot water to create a water bath.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until the pudding is set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use brioche or challah instead of regular bread. If you prefer a different sweetness, consider substituting brown sugar for white sugar. You can also add spices like cinnamon or allspice for extra warmth. If you want to make it a bit healthier, substitute almond milk for regular milk or add chopped nuts for added texture. This bread pudding pairs beautifully with Custard Pudding for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, drizzled with a little cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for added indulgence. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate the presentation. This dish makes a comforting dessert after a hearty meal, like Chicken-Rice-Vegetable Soup-Stew, or can be enjoyed as a brunch treat alongside fruit salad.
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 until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Bread Pudding contains roughly 1404 calories, with 16g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (127% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. It also contributes 36g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 stale bread for this recipe?
Yes, stale bread works perfectly for bread pudding. It absorbs the custard mixture better and leads to a more flavorful result. If your bread is not stale, you can dry it out slightly in the oven before layering it in the baking dish.
Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bread pudding mixture the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This is a great time-saver for brunch gatherings.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. Fresh fruits like sliced bananas or apples can also add a delicious touch to this classic recipe.
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).