New Orleans Bread Pudding
A rich, comforting dessert featuring cubes of bread soaked in a sweet custard, baked until golden, and traditionally served with a warm whiskey sauce. This recipe captures the essence of New Orleans' beloved dessert tradition.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 loaf (about 1 pound) French bread or challah(Day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.)
- 4 Large eggs(Room temperature eggs will incorporate more smoothly into the custard.)
- 2 cups Whole milk(Whole milk provides the richest custard base.)
- 1 cup Granulated sugar(Adjust to your sweetness preference.)
- 2 tsp Vanilla extract(Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor.)
- 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon(Optional, but adds a warm spice note.)
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg(Freshly grated nutmeg offers superior flavor.)
- 1/4 tsp Salt(Enhances the overall flavors.)
- for serving Whiskey or Bourbon Sauce(Homemade or store-bought. See tips for a simple recipe.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the bread: Cut the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. If your bread is fresh, toast it lightly in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it feels slightly dry to the touch. This helps the bread absorb the custard without disintegrating. Let cool completely.
⏱️ 15 minutes (plus cooling time if toasting) - 2
Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until lightly beaten. Gradually whisk in the milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), nutmeg, and salt until well combined and the sugar is mostly dissolved. The mixture should be smooth and uniform.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Soak the bread: Add the cooled bread cubes to the custard mixture. Gently toss to ensure all the bread cubes are coated. Let the mixture stand for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard. The bread should be soft but not completely mushy.
⏱️ 15-30 minutes - 4
Bake the pudding: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe dish. Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the custard has set. The center should be firm but slightly yielding.
⏱️ 45-55 minutes - 5
Serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve warm, generously drizzled with warm whiskey or bourbon sauce.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes (resting)
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Stale bread is key for the best texture. If your bread is very fresh, don't skip the toasting step.
- ✓A good quality whiskey or bourbon sauce is essential for authentic flavor. For a quick sauce: melt 1/2 cup butter, stir in 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 1 tsp vanilla. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in 2-3 tbsp bourbon just before serving (do not boil after adding bourbon).
- ✓Serve warm for the most decadent experience. It can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
- ✓Ensure the custard is fully set before removing from the oven. A slightly jiggly center is okay, as it will continue to set as it cools.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the bread mixture before soaking for a chocolate bread pudding.
- Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts with the bread for added crunch.
- Incorporate 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries into the mixture for a fruity twist.