Description
Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is a rich and comforting dessert made with day-old French bread soaked in a creamy custard flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Baked until golden and served warm, it’s traditionally accompanied by a luscious bourbon sauce that adds a delightful kick of flavor. This Southern favorite is simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread Pudding
- 6 cups day-old French bread (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Bourbon Sauce (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then place the cubed day-old French bread evenly in the dish.
- Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If you’re using raisins or pecans, stir them in now.
- Soak the bread cubes: Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Gently press the bread down with a spoon to help it absorb the custard. Allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes so the bread becomes saturated.
- Bake the bread pudding: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the pudding is golden on top and set in the center. To check doneness, insert a knife into the center – it should come out clean but still moist.
- Prepare the bourbon sauce: While the pudding bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in powdered sugar and heavy cream until the sauce is smooth. Add bourbon to taste, cooking for 1 to 2 more minutes to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the bread pudding warm. Drizzle with bourbon sauce and dust with powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute bourbon with vanilla extract or omit the sauce entirely for a simpler variation.
- Bread pudding is best enjoyed warm but can also be served chilled.
- Leftovers can be gently reheated in the oven or microwave to restore warmth and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
