Description
Grandma’s Bread Pudding is a classic, comforting dessert featuring cubed challah bread soaked in a rich mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and warm spices, then baked to perfection. This traditional recipe results in a soft, custardy interior with a lightly golden top, perfect for a cozy family treat or special occasion dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bread Pudding
- 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
- Prepare the baking dish: Spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place the cubed challah bread into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly to create a uniform layer. Set aside.
- Mix the custard: In a very large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon until completely combined and smooth. This mixture will soak into the bread, creating the custard base.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed challah bread in the baking dish, ensuring that all pieces are thoroughly coated. Allow the bread to sit and soak in the mixture for about 15 minutes. This step helps soften the bread and infuse it with flavor.
- Preheat the oven: While the bread is soaking, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Bake the bread pudding: Place the soaked bread pudding in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden. The pudding should be firm in the center but still moist and custardy.
- Cool before serving: Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly in the baking dish. This allows the custard to firm up a bit more for easier serving. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using day-old challah bread helps the custard soak in better without turning the bread mushy.
- For a richer flavor, substitute whole milk with half-and-half or add a splash of heavy cream.
- You can add raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips to the bread before soaking for extra texture and flavor.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
