Party Bread Pudding
A warm, comforting bread pudding with rich caramel flavors, perfect for casual gatherings or family desserts, customizable with raisins and served warm or cold.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the margarine and add brown sugar.
- Slowly add baking soda and milk, then heat to blend.
- Add bread cubes, salt, and vanilla to the mixture.
- Beat the eggs separately and then add to the bread mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 50 minutes.
- To prevent curdling, place the baking dish in a cake pan or a container of hot water.
- Optional: add raisins before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're short on time, pre-packaged bread cubes can save you the hassle of cutting fresh bread. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the sweetness, or you can incorporate dried fruits like raisins for added texture. Ensure your bread is slightly stale for the best absorption of the custard mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, drizzled with a light caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. This Party Bread Pudding pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced dessert table. Consider serving with whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave them for 30-45 seconds until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Bread Pudding contains roughly 774 calories, with 11g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 848mg per serving (37% 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 a different type of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional white bread works well, you can experiment with brioche, challah, or even whole grain varieties for different textures and flavors. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale to allow better absorption of the custard mixture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free alternative. For the margarine, use a plant-based butter or oil. Just ensure that the egg substitute is suitable for your dietary needs if you’re going fully dairy-free.
How can I tell when the bread pudding is done baking?
Bread pudding is done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly, as it will continue to firm up as it cools.
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).