breakfast bread pudding recipe

breakfast bread pudding recipe

The Best breakfast bread pudding recipe

I have been making this breakfast bread pudding recipe for years, and it has become a staple in my home. My kids ask for it on weekends, and I love that I can use up leftover bread from the week. It is a simple, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in the morning.

The best part is that it is so versatile you can add whatever you have on hand. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings because you can prep it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. It is also a great way to sneak in some protein and fiber, especially if you use whole wheat bread and add some nuts or seeds.

I feel good serving this to my family because it is not too sweet and has a good balance of nutrients. It keeps everyone full and happy until lunchtime. The texture of this bread pudding is soft and custard like on the inside with a slightly crispy top.

The cinnamon and vanilla give it a cozy flavor that fills the whole house. I like to serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup or a handful of fresh berries. It is the kind of breakfast that makes you want to sit down and enjoy the moment.

One of the reasons I love this recipe is how forgiving it is. You can use any kind of bread from brioche to whole wheat, and it always turns out great. The key is to let the bread soak up the custard long enough so every bite is tender and flavorful.

I have made this for holiday mornings, lazy Saturdays, and even as a dessert. It never fails to get compliments.

Classic Breakfast Bread Pudding

Classic Breakfast Bread Pudding

4.9 from 1183 votes

This breakfast bread pudding is a delicious way to use up leftover bread. It is soft, custard like, and lightly sweetened with cinnamon and vanilla.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

4 cups cubed day old bread (about 6 slices)
2 cups whole milk
3 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Topping (optional)

1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
3This ensures the bread pudding does not stick and makes cleanup easier.
4Place the cubed bread in the prepared baking dish in an even layer.
5If you are using very stale bread, you can let it sit out for an hour to dry further, but fresh bread works too.
6The bread will absorb the custard better if it is a little dry.
7In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
8This should take about 2 minutes.
9The custard should be a pale yellow color.
10Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes.
11Gently press down on the bread with a spatula to help it soak up the liquid.
12Let it sit for 10 minutes so the bread can absorb the custard fully.
13You will see the bread soften and swell slightly.
14If using, sprinkle the brown sugar and chopped nuts over the top.
15Drizzle the melted butter over everything.
16Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
17A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
18The edges will be slightly puffed.
19Let the bread pudding cool for 5 minutes before serving.
20It will be very hot.
21Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
22The texture is best when served fresh.

🔧Equipment

9×9 inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 115mg🧂Sodium: 350mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 22g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

You can substitute almond milk or oat milk for whole milk. For a gluten free version, use gluten free bread. Add raisins or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Watch Video Of How Classic Breakfast Bread Pudding Works

This breakfast bread pudding is always a good idea because it turns simple ingredients into something special. I love that I can make it for a holiday brunch or a quiet weekend breakfast and it always works.

My family looks forward to it, and I feel good knowing it is a balanced meal. For storage, keep any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, just pop a serving in the microwave for 30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or a side of fresh fruit.

It is a versatile dish that fits any occasion and always brings smiles to the table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Breakfast Bread Pudding

1. Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding the night before. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit on the counter for 15 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed. The bake time may need an extra 5 minutes because it starts cold.

2. What kind of bread works best?

Stale or day old bread works best because it absorbs the custard without getting mushy. Brioche, challah, French bread, or even whole wheat sandwich bread all work well. Avoid very soft bread like white sandwich bread as it can become too soggy.

3. Can I add fruit or other mix ins?

Absolutely. You can fold in 1/2 cup of fresh or dried fruit like blueberries, chopped apples, or raisins before baking. You can also add chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or a tablespoon of orange zest for extra flavor. Just keep the total mix ins to about 1 cup so the pudding holds together.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 30 seconds or warm in a 350 degree oven for 10 minutes. The texture will still be soft and delicious.

5. Can I make this dairy free?

Yes, use a plant based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk. Replace the butter with a dairy free margarine or coconut oil. The custard will still set nicely, though the flavor may be slightly different. The bake time remains the same.

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