Name: Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cubed French bread; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 2 cups whole milk; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/3 cup dark brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1/8 teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 33 reviews

If you’ve ever wandered through Golden Corral and found yourself absolutely craving that iconic, comforting dessert, you’re in for a real treat with this Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe. It’s a luscious, warmly spiced blend of French bread soaked in a rich custard, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a dreamy vanilla sauce that melts in your mouth. This recipe captures all the cozy nostalgia and indulgence of the restaurant classic, and the best part is you can create it right in your own kitchen. If you love desserts that feel like a warm hug, this bread pudding will quickly become your go-to comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a dark baking tray with several small glass bowls and two eggs placed on a white marbled surface. In the middle, there is a clear glass bowl filled with many small cubes of white bread with golden brown crusts. At the top left, a small bowl contains ground cinnamon, and beside it, two white eggs rest directly on the tray. To the right of the bread bowl, a small bowl holds dark brown vanilla extract, and next to it is a stick of pale yellow butter lying horizontally. Above the butter, another small bowl contains light brown sugar. At the bottom left, a bowl of milk is visible, and next to it on the right, there is a small bowl filled with fine white sugar. All ingredients are neatly arranged in a balanced layout. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and this Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe shines because of how simple yet purpose-driven each element is. From the sturdy French bread that holds every drop of custard, to the warming spices that bring depth, each component plays a vital role in making this dessert unforgettable.

French bread, 3 cups cubed: Sturdy and slightly stale bread works best to absorb the custard without turning mushy.
Butter, 1/2 cup melted: Adds richness and keeps the pudding beautifully moist inside.
Whole milk, 2 cups plus 1 cup: Provides the creamy base for the custard and the decadent vanilla sauce.
Eggs, 2 beaten: Bind the custard together for that perfect custardy texture.
Dark brown sugar, 1/3 cup: Brings a deep molasses sweetness and enhances the warm cinnamon flavor.
Cinnamon, 1 teaspoon: Warms and spices the pudding, giving it its signature cozy flavor.
Salt, 1/4 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup: Sweetens the vanilla sauce just right without overpowering it.
Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Provides that unmistakable aromatic touch to the sauce.
All-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon: Thickens the sauce to the perfect pourable consistency.

How to Make Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start with preheating your oven to 350°F. While it’s warming up, generously oil an 8×11-inch baking dish—this ensures your pudding slips out easily after baking and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Milk and Butter Mixture

In a small saucepan, gently scald together the whole milk and melted butter. “Scalding” means warming it until just before boiling—this step intensifies flavor and helps dissolve the sugars better. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly so the eggs won’t scramble upon mixing.

Step 3: Mix the Custard Base

In a separate bowl, whisk the beaten eggs with dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Once the milk and butter mixture has cooled a bit, pour it slowly into the egg mixture while stirring constantly. This careful incorporation stops the eggs from curdling and creates a smooth custard base.

Step 4: Combine with Bread Cubes

Pour the custard mixture over the cubed French bread and gently stir just enough for the bread to soak but not break apart. The idea is to coat every inch of bread with this creamy goodness without turning it into a mushy mess.

Step 5: Bake the Pudding

Transfer the soaked bread into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake for about 40 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The pudding should be set but still tender and moist inside.

Step 6: Make the Vanilla Sauce

While the pudding is baking, prepare the luscious sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1 cup whole milk, butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Bring it to a low boil, stirring constantly until it thickens—this will take about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to develop that rich, silky texture.

Step 7: Serve!

Pour about half of the warm vanilla sauce over the freshly baked bread pudding and keep the rest in a bowl so everyone can drizzle more if they like. Best enjoyed warm but still delicious at room temperature.

How to Serve Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe

A piece of bread pudding sits in the center of a white plate with a textured pattern. The pudding is golden brown and creamy, with visible chunks of bread soaked in white sauce that looks smooth and milky. A fork with a wooden handle rests on the edge of the plate, angled slightly upward. Above the plate is a small white pitcher filled with more creamy sauce. In the top left corner, part of a larger baking dish filled with more bread pudding can be seen. Everything is set on a white marbled surface with a woven mat underneath the baking dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly ground cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a charming finishing touch. For some extra indulgence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a few toasted pecans scattered on top works like magic to elevate this classic dessert.

Side Dishes

Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe is naturally rich, so pairing it with a light, fresh fruit salad or a simple cup of black coffee balances the sweetness and keeps the overall meal feeling rounded. Something tart like blueberries or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the smooth pudding.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual portions in ramekins for a personalized touch, especially if entertaining guests. You can also garnish with edible flowers or a drizzle of caramel syrup to make the presentation look as delightful as the taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, preserving that comforting, freshly baked flavor.

Freezing

This bread pudding freezes wonderfully. Wrap it securely in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and you can keep it for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a no-fuss dessert ready when you are.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, place a slice or serving in a moderate oven (around 325°F) for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1 to 2 minutes. Don’t forget to add some vanilla sauce afterward for that freshly-served feel.

FAQs

Can I use different bread instead of French bread?

Absolutely! While French bread has the ideal texture, you can substitute with brioche or challah for a richer pudding. Just make sure the bread is a bit stale for optimal custard absorption.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter alternatives. The cooking times and techniques remain the same, though the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I prepare the bread pudding mixture in advance?

Definitely. You can assemble the custard-soaked bread the night before, cover it, and bake it fresh the next day. This actually helps the flavors meld beautifully.

How thick should the vanilla sauce be?

The sauce should be slightly thick but still pourable—like a light custard or cream. Stirring constantly during boiling prevents lumps and ensures perfect smoothness.

What is the secret to mimicking that Golden Corral taste?

The magic lies in balancing the cinnamon and brown sugar in the custard and pairing the warm, slightly dense pudding with that silky homemade vanilla sauce. Following this Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe closely will give you that authentic flavor every time.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe brings a slice of that beloved buffet dessert straight to your own kitchen with such ease and warmth. It’s truly amazing how a handful of simple ingredients can transform into a dessert that feels so indulgent and heartwarming. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, this bread pudding will wrap you in its cozy, sweet embrace. I cannot recommend it enough to anyone who loves a dessert with tradition, texture, and pure flavor happiness. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy bread pudding!