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Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

A comforting dessert that transforms stale bread into a warm and delightful treat, perfect for chilly evenings and festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 cups stale bread, cubed (French or Challah) Use stale bread for the best texture.
  • 4 cups whole milk Can be substituted with almond or oat milk.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • a pinch salt
  • 1 cup raisins (optional) Highly recommended for added sweetness.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted For a rich flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, tear or cut the stale bread into bite-sized cubes.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
  3. Pour the milk mixture over the cubed bread and stir gently to ensure every morsel is soaked. Let it sit for about 15 minutes for a crispy top.
  4. If using raisins, gently fold them into the bread mixture. Then pour in the melted butter.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and pour the bread mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set in the middle.
Serving
  1. Let it cool for about 20 minutes before serving. Optionally, serve warm topped with powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Notes

If you're pressed for time, prep the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Let it come to room temperature before baking. It can also be frozen for up to two months.