Description
This classic Bread Pudding recipe features golden brioche bread soaked in a rich custard of milk, eggs, butter, and warm spices. Baked to a perfect golden brown, it’s a comforting dessert served with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 (1-pound) loaf brioche bread (454 grams)
Custard
- 4 cups milk (908 grams)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (57 grams, melted, plus more for greasing pan)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (12 grams)
- â…” cup granulated sugar (133 grams)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 grams)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 large eggs (200 grams)
Toppings (optional)
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Fresh berries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the bread pudding.
- Dry the Bread: Cut the brioche loaf into 2-inch cubes and spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes until the bread is dry to the touch but not browned, which helps it absorb the custard better.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter to prevent sticking, then transfer the dried bread cubes into the pan and arrange them into an even layer.
- Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, cinnamon, kosher salt, and eggs until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Use a spatula to gently press and wiggle the bread so that it fully soaks up the custard through all the cracks.
- Soak: Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to let the bread absorb the custard. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate overnight for a deeper soak.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. The pudding is done when it is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread pudding cool for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with powdered sugar, drizzle maple syrup, and add fresh berries to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Drying the bread before soaking helps prevent sogginess and creates a better texture.
- The soaking time can be extended overnight in the refrigerator for advanced preparation and a richer pudding.
- Use brioche or other rich, buttery bread varieties for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar according to taste preference.
- Serve warm for the best experience as the bread pudding is comforting and cozy.
