Stickies
A warm, comforting bread pudding with caramelized brown sugar, vanilla pudding, and optional raisins or nuts, perfect for breakfast or dessert gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen bread but do not let it rise.
- Pick thawed pieces off one loaf of bread and place them in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- In a saucepan, melt the oleo and stir in the brown sugar and milk to make a caramel sauce.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the bread pieces in the pan.
- Prepare the vanilla pudding according to package instructions and spread or pour over the bread and caramel.
- Sprinkle cinnamon, raisins, and nuts (if using) over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm, optionally with additional toppings or ice cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use day-old bread instead of frozen for a better texture. If you prefer, substitute margarine for oleo and use almond milk for a dairy-free version. You can also experiment with flavored pudding, like butterscotch, to give a twist to this dish. If you want to add a nutty flavor, consider using toasted pecans or walnuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the sweetness. Consider serving alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds, ensuring they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stickies contains roughly 221 calories, with 1g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh bread, but be sure to let it sit out for a few hours to slightly stale. This helps the bread absorb the caramel and pudding without becoming too soggy.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread. Additionally, ensure that your vanilla pudding mix and any other ingredients are labeled gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).