There’s something magical about recipes that carry a bit of nostalgia — those warm, comforting dishes that instantly transport you back to Grandma’s kitchen. Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is one of those desserts that never fails to warm the heart.
With its soft, custardy interior and lightly golden edges, this pudding is pure comfort on a plate. It’s proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s the kind of dessert that says home with every bite.
And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make — no special tools or tricky techniques required!
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🥣 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Timeless and nostalgic: A recipe that’s been passed down through generations.
- Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have.
- Budget-friendly: Perfect for using up day-old bread — no waste!
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, or add raisins, nuts, or a creamy sauce.
🍞 Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this comforting classic, gather the following:
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (white, brioche, or challah work beautifully)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer pudding)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- Powdered sugar or caramel sauce, for serving
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
🧡 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Cut or tear your day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in the prepared baking dish. Using slightly stale bread helps absorb the custard mixture better and prevents sogginess.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth. Slowly whisk in the melted butter.
Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread soak up the custard. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes before baking.
Step 4: Add Optional Mix-Ins
If you love a little texture and sweetness, sprinkle in the raisins or dried cranberries, mixing them gently into the bread before baking.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is just set. The pudding should be slightly puffed and the edges beautifully caramelized.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with caramel sauce, or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent finish.
The aroma that fills your kitchen while this bakes is pure bliss — buttery, sweet, and warmly spiced!
🌟 Tips for the Best Bread Pudding
- Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard best.
- Don’t overbake: The pudding should be soft and custardy, not dry.
- Try flavor twists: Add orange zest, chocolate chips, or even a splash of bourbon for a grown-up twist.
- For a silky finish: Pour a warm vanilla or rum sauce over the top before serving.
🧊 Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
- Freeze: You can freeze baked bread pudding (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
🧁 What to Serve With Bread Pudding
- A drizzle of warm caramel or vanilla sauce
- A scoop of homemade whipped cream
- A sprinkle of toasted nuts or fresh berries
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh bread?
A: Yes, but it’s best to dry it out slightly first. Toast cubes in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes before adding the custard.
Q: What kind of milk works best?
A: Whole milk gives a rich flavor, but half-and-half or light cream makes it extra indulgent.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the pudding, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
💬 Conclusion
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding isn’t just a dessert — it’s a taste of tradition. Soft, buttery, and perfectly spiced, it’s the kind of comforting recipe that brings families together around the table.
Whether you make it for Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or just because you crave something sweet and nostalgic, one bite will remind you why Grandma’s recipes never go out of style. ❤️
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🍽️ Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 340 | Protein: 7g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 47g | Sugar: 29g
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