Name: Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: – 6 cups day-old French or brioche bread, cubed; – 2 cups milk; – 1 cup heavy cream; – 4 large eggs; – 1 cup granulated sugar; – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; – 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; – 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; – 1/4 teaspoon salt; – 1 cup raisins (optional); – 2 tablespoons butter, melted

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that transforms simple, stale bread into a warm, indulgent dessert. Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is all about celebrating resourcefulness and rich, soulful flavors. Picture soft, custardy bread dotted with plump raisins, infused with aromatic spices, and finished with a silky, decadent sauce. Trust me, every bite will remind you why this beloved dessert has been a Southern staple for generations!

Why You’ll Love Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Versatile

Enjoy it warm on a chilly evening, as a festive dessert at family gatherings, or even as a luxurious breakfast treat.

Budget-Friendly

Made from day-old bread and pantry staples, it’s a perfect way to create a gourmet dessert without overspending.

Quick and Easy

The simple assembly and straightforward baking process mean you can whip up this comforting dish in no time.

Customizable

Tweak the spices or add your favorite dried fruits, and top it off with a rich bourbon or caramel sauce for a personalized twist.

Crowd-Pleasing

Its rich, soulful flavors and delightful texture make it a guaranteed hit for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Here’s the secret behind this comforting dessert—it’s all about transforming everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.

Stale French Bread: The heart of the dish, providing a perfect base for absorbing the custard.
Milk: Creates a smooth, rich custard that soaks into every morsel of bread.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding richness and structure.
Sugar: Sweetens the custard, balancing the spices and flavors.
Vanilla Extract: Infuses the pudding with a warm, inviting aroma.
Raisins: Add bursts of natural sweetness throughout.
Cinnamon: Provides a comforting, spicy warmth.
Nutmeg: Enhances the flavor with a subtle, earthy note.
Butter: Enriches the pudding and helps create a golden crust.
Optional Sauce: Bourbon or caramel sauce to drizzle on top for an extra layer of decadence.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to the temperature indicated in your recipe card. A properly preheated oven ensures even baking and the perfect texture.

Prepare the Bread

Cut or tear the stale French bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. This will serve as the base that absorbs all the rich flavors.

Make the Custard

In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir in the cinnamon and nutmeg until the mixture is well combined.

Combine and Let Soak

Pour the custard over the bread pieces, ensuring every piece is saturated. Add the raisins and gently mix everything together. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Transfer to a Baking Dish

Grease your baking dish with butter. Transfer the bread and custard mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.

Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the custard is set and the top is golden brown, usually about 30-40 minutes. A fork inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done.

Add the Finishing Touches

Once baked, remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle your favorite bourbon or caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Cut into generous portions and serve warm. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as it offers a comforting mix of textures and flavors that embody the spirit of New Orleans.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 320
(Nutrition values may vary based on added ingredients.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

This pudding pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve it as a decadent dessert after a hearty meal, or enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat alongside a hot cup of coffee. Its rich flavors make it perfect for both casual and celebratory occasions.

Additional Tips

Use Day-Old Bread: The drier the bread, the better it will absorb the custard.
Customize Your Fruits: Substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates for a unique twist.
Let It Soak: Allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 15 minutes to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Basting for Extra Richness: Occasionally baste the pudding with its own juices during baking for a moister texture.
Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces—try a rum-infused caramel sauce or a spiced bourbon drizzle to suit your taste.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate, then reheat gently before serving.

2. What type of bread works best?
Stale French or Italian bread is ideal as it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.

3. Can I substitute the raisins?
Absolutely! Feel free to use other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or even a mix for varied flavor.

4. How do I prevent the pudding from drying out?
Ensure the bread is well-saturated with the custard and consider basting it during baking if necessary.

5. Is it necessary to use spices?
Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are key to that classic flavor, but you can adjust the amounts to suit your preference.

6. Can I add a sauce on top?
Yes, a bourbon or caramel sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence that complements the pudding perfectly.

7. What if I don’t have a baking dish?
Any oven-safe dish will work, just be sure it’s well-greased to prevent sticking.

8. Can I make it gluten-free?
You can substitute traditional bread with a gluten-free alternative, though the texture may vary slightly.

9. How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

10. Can I freeze the pudding?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is a timeless dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a dish bursting with warmth and comfort. Its rich custard-soaked bread, enhanced with spices and raisins, creates a symphony of flavors that evoke the spirit of New Orleans. Whether enjoyed with a scoop of ice cream or on its own, every bite is a reminder of Southern hospitality and home-cooked goodness. Enjoy creating and savoring this classic treat!

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding