There’s something timeless and comforting about a warm bread pudding fresh out of the oven. This Warm Custard Bread Pudding is everything a classic dessert should be—soft, creamy, lightly sweet, and crowned with golden, pillowy bread pieces dusted in powdered sugar. It’s the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with nostalgic scents and brings everyone running for a spoon.
Made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home—milk, eggs, sugar, and leftover bread—it transforms humble pantry staples into a rich, velvety custard dessert that’s perfect for any season. Serve it warm with a drizzle of cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it as-is for the ultimate comfort bite.
Why You’ll Love This Custard Bread Pudding
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Minimal ingredients – Made with things you already have on hand.
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Creamy and luxurious – The custard bakes into a silky, rich base.
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Golden, fluffy top – Slightly crisp, beautifully browned bread pieces.
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Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
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Great way to use stale bread.
Ingredients
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4 cups cubed bread (brioche, challah, or white bread work best)
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2 cups milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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4 large eggs
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¾ cup sugar
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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¼ cup melted butter
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Powdered sugar (for topping)
How to Make Warm Custard Bread Pudding
Step 1: Prep Your Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Add the Bread
Cut your bread into medium-sized cubes and place them evenly into the baking dish. Slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the custard beautifully.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
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eggs
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sugar
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milk
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heavy cream
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vanilla extract
Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Pour the Custard
Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing the bread down so it absorbs the mixture.
Drizzle melted butter over the top for extra richness.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until:
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the top is puffed and golden
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the center is set but slightly jiggly
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the edges are lightly browned
Step 6: Serve Warm
Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Optional: add whipped cream, ice cream, caramel sauce, or berries.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is excellent on its own, but even better with:
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Warm vanilla sauce
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Fresh fruit
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A drizzle of honey
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A sprinkle of cinnamon
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A scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream
Storage Tips
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.
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It can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw and warm before serving.