Old-fashioned bread pudding is one of my go-to desserts. It’s easy to make with pantry staples like stale bread, eggs, and milk.

The custard soaks into the bread, creating a soft, creamy texture with a golden top. I have included two optional sauces, a quick brown sugar drizzle and a creamy vanilla sauce to add a little extra flavour.

Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it plain, this recipe is a practical way to use leftovers and make a satisfying dessert.

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Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses everyday ingredients, making it easy to whip up anytime. Here’s what you’ll need, with a few notes to guide you:

How Long to Bake Bread Pudding

Bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes. The top should be golden, and the centre should feel set but still soft. Overbaking can dry out the custard, so keep an eye on it.

Optional Sauces for Your Bread Pudding

This bread pudding is delicious on its own, but a sauce can make it extra special. Here are two easy options:

1. Ingredient Brown Sugar Sauce

This buttery, caramel-like sauce adds a delightful crunch from candied brown sugar.

Melt butter: In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over high heat.

Brown the butter: Reduce to medium heat and let the butter brown slightly (it’ll smell nutty).

Add sugar and vanilla: Stir in 1 tablespoon brown sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Finish: Stir until smooth, remove from heat, and let rest for 1–2 minutes. Drizzle over warm bread pudding.

2. Creamy Vanilla Sauce

For a richer, creamier option, try this sauce:

1. Melt butter: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add sugar and cream: Stir in ½ cup sugar and ½ cup heavy cream. Cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly (3–5 minutes).
3. Add vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Serve: Pour over warm bread pudding.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your bread pudding warm for the coziest experience. Here are some ideas to make it even better:

• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate sauce.
• Sprinkle it with powdered sugar or chopped nuts.
• Add fresh berries or dried fruit for a burst of flavor.
• Serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free bread for bread pudding?

Yes! Gluten-free bread works well as long as it’s slightly stale or dried out. Choose a sturdy variety, like gluten-free French bread or sandwich bread, to hold up to the custard.

What’s the difference between bread pudding and French toast casserole?

Bread pudding uses a custard base to create a soft, creamy texture, while French toast casserole often has a firmer, eggier texture and is sometimes layered or topped with streusel. Both use bread, but bread pudding is more dessert-like.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Grease the slow cooker, add the bread and custard mixture, and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until set. Check with a knife to ensure the center is cooked.

How can I make this lower in sugar?

Reduce the sugar to ½ cup in the custard and skip the sauce, or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. Adjust to taste, as substitutes may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I add a crunchy topping?

Absolutely! Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of ¼ cup brown sugar and ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for a crunchy contrast.