Name: Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups day-old bread (French bread, brioche, or challah), cubed; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp salt; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed; 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Pinch of salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is comforting, budget-friendly, and a great way to use up day-old bread. The caramel sauce takes it to the next level, adding a silky sweetness that complements the custard-soaked bread perfectly. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and delicious served warm, cold, or at room temperature.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Day-old bread (French bread, brioche, or challah), cubed
Whole milk
Heavy cream
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt
Unsalted butter

For the caramel sauce:

Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter
Heavy cream
Salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread cubed bread evenly in the dish.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Pour custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing gently so the bread absorbs the liquid. Let sit for 15–20 minutes.
Dot the top with small cubes of butter.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
While the pudding bakes, prepare the caramel sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar until golden and liquefied. Add butter and stir until melted, then slowly whisk in cream. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until smooth. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
Let the bread pudding cool slightly, then drizzle with warm caramel sauce before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 8–10
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for extra sweetness.
Mix in chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Use flavored bread like cinnamon swirl or panettone for a festive twist.
Replace part of the milk with coconut milk for a subtle tropical note.
Top with whipped cream or ice cream instead of (or along with) caramel sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual servings for 30–40 seconds. Bread pudding can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

Yes, but toast it lightly first so it can better absorb the custard.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pudding and refrigerate overnight, then bake before serving.

Can I make the caramel sauce in advance?

Yes, store it in the fridge for up to a week and reheat gently before serving.

What type of bread works best?

Brioche, challah, or French bread are ideal for their sturdy texture and flavor.

Can I add alcohol for flavor?

Yes, a splash of rum or bourbon in the custard or caramel sauce adds warmth and depth.

How do I prevent the pudding from being soggy?

Use the right bread-to-custard ratio and avoid over-soaking.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use almond or oat milk and plant-based cream and butter.

Can I bake it in smaller dishes?

Yes, divide into ramekins and reduce baking time to about 25–30 minutes.

Why is my caramel grainy?

The sugar may have crystallized—stir gently and avoid scraping the pan’s sides.

Can I skip the caramel sauce?

Yes, it’s still delicious on its own or with another sauce like chocolate or vanilla.

Conclusion

Bread pudding with caramel sauce is a timeless dessert that’s both humble and luxurious. With its custard-soft center, golden edges, and sweet caramel drizzle, it’s a warm and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.