Print

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is a warm and comforting Southern dessert made with day-old bread baked in a rich custard and topped with a decadent bourbon or vanilla sauce. Rustic, hearty, and soul-satisfying, it’s a timeless treat perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf day-old French bread or brioche, cubed
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
  • For the sauce: 1/2 cup butter, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp bourbon or 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Place cubed bread in the dish and sprinkle raisins or pecans if using.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
  4. Pour custard mixture evenly over bread. Press down lightly so all bread soaks up the liquid. Let sit for 20 minutes.
  5. Dot the top with butter and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.
  6. Meanwhile, make the sauce: melt butter in a saucepan, add sugar and cream, and simmer until smooth. Stir in bourbon or vanilla.
  7. Serve warm bread pudding topped with sauce.

Notes

  • Swap raisins for dried cranberries, chopped apples, or chocolate chips for variety.
  • Use a mix of breads (croissants, challah, or doughnuts) for extra richness.
  • Add orange zest or caramel drizzle for a flavor boost.
  • For a make-ahead version, assemble the pudding, refrigerate overnight, and bake the next day.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/classic-new-orleans-bread-pudding/