Discover the ultimate comfort dessert with these 10 irresistible bread pudding recipes that transform simple ingredients into heavenly treats.
From classic vanilla and cinnamon to decadent chocolate and fruit-filled variations, you’ll find the perfect recipe to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Whether you’re looking to use up day-old bread or create an impressive dessert for guests, these recipes offer something for everyone.
We’ll explore traditional favorites, modern twists, and seasonal variations that will help you master this timeless dessert.
Get ready to create warm, custardy perfection in your own kitchen.
Classic Vanilla Bean Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

Transform day-old bread into a luxurious dessert that combines the warmth of vanilla beans, the richness of cream, and the indulgence of homemade caramel sauce.
This comforting bread pudding will fill your home with irresistible aromas and create lasting memories around your dining table.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Caramel Sauce:
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Whisk eggs, milk, cream, vanilla bean seeds, sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl.
Step 3: Add bread cubes to the mixture and gently toss to coat. Let soak for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Transfer to prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: For the caramel sauce, melt sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until amber-colored.
Step 6: Carefully add cream, butter, and salt, stirring until smooth.
Step 7: Serve warm pudding with caramel sauce drizzled on top.
Pro Tip: Ensure your bread is truly day-old and slightly dry – this helps it absorb the custard mixture better. You can also test the pudding’s doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean when ready.
Double Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding

Indulge in this decadent dessert that combines the comfort of traditional bread pudding with rich chocolate flavors.
This warm, gooey treat transforms day-old bread into a luxurious dessert that will satisfy your deepest chocolate cravings.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups day-old bread cubes (brioche or challah preferred)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the mixture over the bread cubes. Gently press down to ensure all bread is coated.
Step 5: Sprinkle both types of chocolate chips evenly over the top.
Step 6: Let stand for 20 minutes to allow bread to soak up the mixture.
Step 7: Bake for 45-50 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 8: Cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, use bread that’s 1-2 days old – fresh bread will become too mushy. You can also test doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Cinnamon Apple Raisin Bread Pudding

Warm, comforting, and filled with sweet autumn flavors, this Cinnamon Apple Raisin Bread Pudding transforms day-old bread into a delightful dessert that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma.
This classic comfort food combines tender apples, plump raisins, and warm spices for a perfect ending to any meal.
Ingredients:
• 6 cups day-old bread cubes
• 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
• 1 cup raisins
• 4 large eggs
• 2½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ cup butter, melted
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish. Scatter diced apples and raisins over the bread.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread mixture. Gently press down bread to ensure it’s coated.
Step 5: Drizzle melted butter over the top.
Step 6: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
Step 7: Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, let the bread soak in the custard mixture for 15-20 minutes before baking. You’ll know your pudding is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top springs back when lightly pressed.
Maple Pecan Praline Bread Pudding

Maple Pecan Praline Bread Pudding is a luxurious dessert that combines the warmth of maple syrup, the crunch of candied pecans, and the comfort of tender bread pudding.
This indulgent treat transforms day-old bread into a spectacular dessert that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds dance with joy.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups day-old French bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups pecans, chopped
• ½ cup butter, melted
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Spread bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
Step 3: Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 4: Pour the mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
Step 5: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top and drizzle with melted butter.
Step 6: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.
Step 7: Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, let the bread soak in the custard mixture for 30 minutes before baking. You can also prepare this dish the night before and refrigerate it, allowing the bread to absorb all the delicious flavors fully.
Banana Foster Bread Pudding

Banana Foster Bread Pudding combines the classic New Orleans dessert flavors with a comforting bread pudding base.
This indulgent dessert transforms day-old bread into a caramelized, banana-infused treat that will impress your family and guests alike.
The warm caramel sauce and tender bananas create an irresistible combination that’s perfect for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups day-old bread cubes
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, half the brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 3: Add bread cubes to the mixture and let soak for 15 minutes.
Step 4: In a separate pan, melt butter and remaining brown sugar until bubbling.
Step 5: Add sliced bananas to the caramel mixture and cook for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Pour half the bread mixture into the baking dish, layer with banana caramel mixture, then add remaining bread mixture.
Step 7: Sprinkle with pecans and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, use slightly stale bread that’s at least one day old. You can also test for doneness by inserting a knife in the center – it should come out clean with only a few moist crumbs.
White Chocolate Cranberry Bread Pudding

White Chocolate Cranberry Bread Pudding is a luxurious dessert that transforms day-old bread into a creamy, sweet comfort food.
This festive combination of tart cranberries and smooth white chocolate creates a perfect balance of flavors that will impress your guests during holiday gatherings or make any evening special.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups white chocolate chips
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Arrange bread cubes in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
Step 4: Sprinkle white chocolate chips and cranberries evenly over the bread cubes.
Step 5: Pour the milk mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
Step 6: Let stand for 15 minutes, occasionally pressing bread down gently.
Step 7: Drizzle melted butter over the top.
Step 8: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.
Step 9: Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, use bread that’s slightly stale – it will absorb the custard mixture better. You can also prepare this dish the night before and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly before baking.
Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding

Indulge in the perfect autumn dessert with this cozy Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding.
This comforting treat combines the warmth of traditional bread pudding with seasonal pumpkin and aromatic spices, creating a delightful dessert that’s perfect for chilly evenings or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups day-old challah or brioche bread, cubed
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup maple syrup
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, vanilla, spices, and salt until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the mixture over the bread cubes. Gently press down to ensure all pieces are coated.
Step 5: Let stand for 15 minutes to allow bread to soak up the custard.
Step 6: Drizzle maple syrup over the top.
Step 7: Bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden brown on top.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, use bread that’s slightly stale – leave it out overnight to dry. You’ll know your bread pudding is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top springs back when lightly pressed.
Coconut Mango Tropical Bread Pudding

Indulge in a tropical paradise with this luxurious Coconut Mango Tropical Bread Pudding.
This heavenly dessert combines the sweet, juicy flavors of ripe mangoes with creamy coconut milk, creating a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding that will transport you to a beachside retreat.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups day-old challah bread, cubed
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Arrange bread cubes in the baking dish and scatter diced mangoes throughout.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, whole milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Pour the liquid mixture evenly over the bread and mangoes, ensuring all pieces are coated.
Step 5: Sprinkle shredded coconut, nutmeg, and salt over the top.
Step 6: Let sit for 15 minutes to allow bread to soak up the liquid.
Step 7: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.
Step 8: Cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, use slightly stale bread that’s at least one day old. You can also test for doneness by inserting a knife in the center – it should come out clean with no liquid mixture clinging to it.
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Pudding

Treat yourself to this luxuriously creamy and fruity bread pudding that combines the tangy sweetness of cream cheese with bursting blueberries.
This comforting dessert transforms day-old bread into a heavenly treat that’s perfect for brunch or dessert.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups day-old bread cubes
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 2½ cups whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• ¼ cup powdered sugar for dusting
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the mixture over the bread cubes. Gently press down to ensure bread absorbs the liquid.
Step 5: Scatter blueberries evenly throughout and drizzle with melted butter.
Step 6: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.
Step 7: Let cool for 15 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, let your bread sit out uncovered overnight to dry slightly before using. You’ll achieve better absorption of the custard mixture, resulting in a perfectly moist pudding that holds its shape when served.
Butterscotch Toffee Bread Pudding

Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this irresistible Butterscotch Toffee Bread Pudding.
This heavenly combination of buttery brioche, rich butterscotch, and crunchy toffee pieces creates a warm, gooey dessert that’s perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups day-old brioche bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup butterscotch chips
• ½ cup toffee bits
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 4: Pour the mixture over the bread cubes. Gently press down to ensure all pieces are soaked.
Step 5: Sprinkle butterscotch chips and toffee bits evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.
Step 7: Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, let your bread sit out uncovered overnight to become slightly stale. You can also test doneness by inserting a knife in the center – it should come out clean with no liquid mixture attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a bread pudding recipe extra moist and creamy?
Using a combination of heavy cream and whole milk creates the perfect custard base. Adding extra egg yolks and letting the bread fully soak enhances richness and texture.
Which types of bread work best for classic bread pudding?
Day-old brioche, challah, or French bread deliver the best results. These enriched breads absorb the custard mixture while maintaining their structure during baking.
How can you prevent bread pudding from becoming soggy?
Toast your bread cubes in the oven for 10-15 minutes before soaking them in custard. This step creates the perfect balance of crispy top and creamy center.
What are the essential spices for a traditional bread pudding?
Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract form the classic flavor profile. Adding a touch of cardamom or ginger can elevate the traditional recipe.
How long should you let bread pudding rest before serving?
Allow your bread pudding to rest for 15-20 minutes after baking. This cooling period helps the custard set properly and makes serving easier.
Final Thoughts
These bread pudding recipes offer you endless possibilities to transform simple ingredients into comforting desserts.
Whether you prefer classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or seasonal fruit variations, you’ll find a recipe that suits your taste.
Remember to use day-old bread for the best texture, and don’t skip the resting time that allows the bread to fully absorb the custard.
Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations and toppings to make these recipes your own.
With these versatile recipes in your collection, you’ll never look at leftover bread the same way again.