Easy Comforting Bread Pudding for Beginners and Busy Cooks

© Original Recipe By The Daily Garnish ©

🍞🧁 Easy Comforting Bread Pudding for Beginners and Busy Cooks

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a dessert that warms your soul and takes minimal effort, this **bread pudding recipe** is your new best friend. Creamy, sweet, and loaded with comforting flavors, bread pudding is the ultimate **comfort food dessert** that even novice bakers can master. This easy bread pudding transforms everyday bread into a luscious treat, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you’re pressed for time or new to baking, this recipe promises delicious results without fuss.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Extra quick to prepare: Ready in about 50 minutes from start to finish.
  • Minimal ingredients: Uses pantry staples, no fancy ingredients required.
  • Perfect for leftovers: Repurpose day-old bread into a decadent dessert.
  • Flexible and forgiving: Adjust sweetness and add your favorite flavors.

3. Ingredient Notes

This bread pudding recipe features simple ingredients, but selecting the right quality makes all the difference. Use a reliable digital air fryer for quick pre-baking or reheating leftovers to keep the pudding warm. The bread is the star—opt for sturdy bread like French baguette, challah, or brioche, as they soak up the custard beautifully and add an indulgent texture. When choosing eggs and milk, go for farm-fresh or organic options for richer flavor and better color. Vanilla extract should be pure for that aromatic sweetness, and a pinch of cinnamon enhances the warmth and depth of flavor.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make this bread pudding effortlessly, ensure you have the right tools. A Ninja 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven with FlexDoor & Air Fry makes baking and reheating a breeze, keeping your dessert at just the right temperature. For mixing, consider a sturdy KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer to achieve a smooth custard base. And don’t forget a good baking dish—preferably a ceramic or glass baking dish to promote even baking and beautiful presentation.

5. How to Make Easy Comforting Bread Pudding for Beginners and Busy Cooks

Prepare the Bread

Start by cubing your bread into bite-sized pieces. Toast the bread lightly if you want a little extra crunch, or leave it soft for a creamier texture. Spread your bread squares in your baking dish, ensuring even coverage.

Mix the Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. The custard should be smooth, silky, and fragrant—think of a creamy hug in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the bread, pressing down gently so every piece is soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up all the goodness.

Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pudding uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy. Your kitchen will be filled with warm, sweet aromas that make everyone eager for dessert. For an extra touch, drizzle with caramel or honey before serving.

6. Expert Tips for Success

  • Use day-old bread: It absorbs the custard better and holds its shape.
  • Avoid over-soaking: Soak just enough to coat the bread—so it doesn’t become soggy.
  • Monitor baking: Check that the pudding is set and the top is golden, but avoid overbaking, which can dry it out.
  • Flavor variances: Feel free to add raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts to customize your dessert.

7. Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is versatile. For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk or almond milk. For a richer flavor, swap vanilla extract with a splash of bourbon or rum. Want to make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free bread, ensuring it still soaks up the custard nicely. Vegetarian or vegan? Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or aquafaba, and use plant-based milk options.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in your compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer or oven until heated through. For best results, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or drizzle honey before serving to revive that just-baked taste.

9. FAQ

Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the pudding up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

What bread works best for this recipe?

Sturdy breads like challah, brioche, French baguette, or Texas toast absorb the custard beautifully, creating a moist yet textured dessert.

Can I freeze bread pudding?

Yes, once cooled, freeze individual portions in airtight containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat for a quick comfort food treat.

Is bread pudding suitable for special diets?

Yes—by using gluten-free bread, dairy-free milk, and egg substitutes, you can adapt this dish to fit various dietary needs while maintaining its delicious appeal.

10. Conclusion

This easybread pudding recipe is a true comfort food that’s perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike. Its rich, creamy texture and aromatic spices make every bite delightful. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a warm, homemade dessert ready in no time. Ideal for turning leftover bread into a decadent treat, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite. Happy baking!

Print
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A warm, golden bread pudding served in a rustic ceramic bowl, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of caramel sauce. The pudding has a soft, custardy interior with crispy edges. Surrounding the dish are slices of crusty bread and a small nutmeg grater. The background features a cozy wooden table, soft natural light, and fresh cinnamon sticks for decoration.

Easy Comforting Bread Pudding for Beginners and Busy Cooks

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A quick and easy bread pudding that combines leftover bread, milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, baked until golden and tender. Perfect for a cozy dessert or brunch.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Butter for greasing

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir in milk.
  3. Add bread cubes to the mixture, ensuring they are soaked well.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, pressing down gently.
  5. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden and set.

Notes

  • You can add raisins or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
  • Serve warm with caramel or vanilla sauce.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 240 Kcal
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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