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Classic Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce

A spoonful of rich custard sauce being drizzled over a serving of golden-brown bread pudding in a white dish.

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A comforting and economical dessert made from day-old bread, soaked in a rich custard, and topped with a warm bourbon sauce. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover bread.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • For the Bourbon Sauce:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  4. Add the toasted bread cubes to the custard mixture and gently toss to ensure all pieces are coated. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the custard.
  5. Pour the bread and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
  7. While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the bourbon sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and butter over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
  8. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract.
  10. Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Drizzle generously with the warm bourbon sauce.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can soak the bread cubes for up to an hour before baking.
  • Raisins or chocolate chips can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.
  • If you prefer a softer center, you can cover the baking dish with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking.
  • This recipe is a great way to reduce food waste and create a delicious dessert.

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