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Grandma’s Bread Pudding Recipe

4.5 from 77 reviews

Grandma’s Bread Pudding is a classic, comforting dessert made with day-old challah bread soaked in a rich custard of eggs, milk, and warm spices, then baked to golden perfection. This nostalgic treat combines creamy textures and fragrant flavors of vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon for an irresistible homemade dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf day-old challah bread, cubed into 1-inch pieces
  • 5 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 4 cups (960 ml) whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and evenly distribute the cubed challah bread in the dish to ensure even soaking.
  2. Mix the Custard Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, whole milk, pure vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  3. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed bread. Press down gently with a spatula or your hands to make sure all bread pieces are fully soaked. Let the bread sit and absorb the custard for 15 minutes.
  4. Preheat the Oven: While the bread is soaking, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is slightly golden and firm to the touch.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool briefly. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • Day-old bread absorbs the custard better, enhancing texture and flavor.
  • Use challah bread for a slightly sweet and rich flavor, but brioche or French bread can be suitable alternatives.
  • For an extra touch, consider sprinkling powdered sugar or serving with a drizzle of caramel or vanilla sauce.
  • Allowing the bread to soak for 15 minutes is crucial to achieving a custardy texture throughout.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.

Keywords: Grandma's bread pudding, bread pudding recipe, baked custard dessert, challah bread dessert, classic dessert, cinnamon nutmeg bread pudding