Vanilla Bread Pudding(With Cinnamon-Sugar Topping)
A comforting vanilla bread pudding with cinnamon-sugar topping, featuring tender bread cubes soaked in a vanilla custard, perfect for dessert or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk until very hot but not boiling.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and granulated sugar to mix.
- Whisk in the hot milk, then add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and vanilla extract.
- Place the bread cubes in a baking dish.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- In a small bowl, combine strawberry jam and light brown sugar to make the topping.
- Spread the jam mixture over the soaked bread.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until golden and set.
- Serve warm, optionally with additional cinnamon-sugar topping or whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk or adding a splash of heavy cream to the milk. If you don't have Italian bread, French bread or brioche works well too. For a twist, add raisins or chocolate chips to the bread mixture. To enhance the cinnamon-sugar topping, feel free to mix in a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, optionally topped with additional cinnamon-sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. For a delightful brunch, consider serving alongside some fresh fruit or Hot Vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vanilla Bread Pudding(With Cinnamon-Sugar Topping) contains roughly 1230 calories, with 17g protein, 214g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (88% of the Daily Value), calcium (87% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 835mg per serving (36% 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?
Yes, you can use other types of bread such as French bread or brioche. The key is to use a bread that can absorb the custard without falling apart. Stale bread works best as it soaks up the mixture without becoming mushy.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute Italian bread with gluten-free bread. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the milk and sugars, are gluten-free as well. The baking process remains the same, and it will still yield a delicious dessert.
Can I prepare this bread pudding in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bread pudding mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).