Name: Crockpot Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487564H5M44S
Total time: PT-487564H5M44S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups day-old bread, cubed; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp salt; For caramel sauce: 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Pinch of salt

Crockpot Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The slow cooker makes this dessert wonderfully easy—just assemble, set, and let it cook to perfection. The gentle heat creates a custardy interior while keeping the bread tender, and the caramel sauce takes it over the top with its smooth, sweet finish. It’s a fantastic make-ahead or serve-straight-from-the-pot option.

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
Eggs
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
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

Grease the insert of your slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray.
Place bread cubes evenly into the slow cooker.
In a bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing gently so it absorbs evenly. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
Dot the top with small cubes of butter.
Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
While the pudding cooks, make the caramel sauce: Melt sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until golden. Add butter and stir until melted, then slowly whisk in cream. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until smooth. Add salt if desired.
Spoon warm bread pudding into bowls and drizzle generously with caramel sauce.

Servings and timing

Serves 8–10
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 3–4 hours
Total time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for extra sweetness.
Mix in chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Replace some milk with coconut milk for a subtle tropical twist.
Use cinnamon swirl bread for extra spice.
Serve with whipped cream or ice cream alongside the caramel sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30–40 seconds or warm in the slow cooker on low until heated through. This dessert can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bread pudding in the slow cooker insert, refrigerate overnight, and cook the next day.

Can I use fresh bread?

Yes, but it’s best to toast it lightly first so it absorbs the custard better.

Can I cook it on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for about 2 hours, but watch closely to avoid overcooking.

What bread works best?

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

Can I make the caramel sauce ahead?

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

Can I skip the caramel sauce?

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

Can I add alcohol to the custard?

Yes, a splash of bourbon or rum adds warmth and depth.

How do I prevent it from becoming soggy?

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

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk, cream, and butter alternatives.

Can I bake this in the oven instead?

Yes, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45–50 minutes or until set.

Conclusion

Crockpot bread pudding with caramel sauce is a fuss-free, indulgent dessert that combines old-fashioned comfort with modern convenience. With its soft custard interior, golden bread pieces, and decadent caramel drizzle, it’s sure to be a hit at any table.