Discover the rich, creamy delight of bread and butter pudding, an easy, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic treat combines buttery bread slices soaked in a sweet custard, baked to golden perfection, creating a warm, indulgent dish that’s irresistibly satisfying. Whether served as a cozy family dessert or a charming ending to a dinner party, bread and butter pudding captivates with its nostalgic flavors and soothing texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Comfort: Bread and butter pudding uses simple pantry staples to create a heartwarming dessert with minimal fuss.
Delightfully Creamy Texture: The soft custard-soaked bread melds into a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to resist.
Customizable Flavors: Easily add fruits, spices, or chocolate to personalize the pudding to your taste.
Perfect for Leftovers: It’s an excellent way to transform day-old bread into a delicious, waste-free treat.
Suitable for All Occasions: Whether casual or formal, it’s an adaptable dessert that feels special every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of bread and butter pudding lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering the rich taste, creamy texture, and beautiful golden color that make this pudding unforgettable.

Day-old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs custard perfectly without becoming mushy.
Butter: Spreading butter on the bread layers adds richness and helps create a crisp top.
Eggs: Essential for binding the custard and creating that smooth, silky texture.
Milk and Cream: A combination that makes the custard silky and indulgent without being too heavy.
Sugar: Sweetens the custard just enough to balance flavors beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: Infuses a delicate aroma and warmth enhancing the pudding’s character.
Optional Add-ins: Raisins, cinnamon, or nutmeg can add wonderful depth to the flavor.

Variations for Bread and Butter Pudding

One of the best things about bread and butter pudding is how easy it is to modify. Feel free to experiment by swapping ingredients or customizing the recipe to fit your mood or dietary preferences.

Fruit-Infused: Add fresh berries or apples between the bread layers for a fruity twist.
Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before baking.
Spiced Wonder: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a fragrant and warming variation.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute milk and cream with coconut milk or your favorite plant-based alternative.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Why Bread and Butter Pudding Is Irresistible

How to Make Bread and Butter Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Begin by slicing the bread into even pieces and spreading a thin layer of butter on each slice. This not only adds flavor but helps create the pudding’s characteristic crisp edges.

Step 2: Layer the Bread

Arrange the buttered slices in a greased baking dish, overlapping slightly to create layers. If using raisins or fruit, sprinkle them between layers for even distribution.

Step 3: Make the Custard

Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully combined. This smooth custard mixture is what gives the pudding its creamy heart.

Step 4: Pour Custard Over Bread

Slowly pour the custard evenly over the bread layers, ensuring every piece soaks up the custard. Allow the pudding to rest for about 15 minutes so the bread absorbs the liquid.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the pudding in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.

Pro Tips for Making Bread and Butter Pudding

Choose the right bread: Thick-sliced brioche or challah enhances richness and holds the custard well.
Don’t skip the butter: It helps create a crisp, flavorful crust that’s a signature of the dish.
Rest before baking: Allow the custard to soak into the bread for juicier results.
Bake low and slow: A longer, gentler bake ensures custard sets without drying out.
Add texture: Sprinkle nuts or a crumble topping for contrast against the creamy interior.

How to Serve Bread and Butter Pudding

Garnishes

Top your pudding with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a spoonful of custard sauce to complement the pudding’s creamy texture and balance its sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, bake individual portions in ramekins or muffin tins, adding unique toppings tailored to each guest’s preference for an elegant, personalized dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover leftover bread and butter pudding tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days, keeping it moist and ready to enjoy without loss of flavor.

Freezing

Wrap portions in plastic wrap and foil for freezing. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a low oven or microwave to preserve the custard’s creaminess without drying out the pudding.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free bread for bread and butter pudding?

Absolutely! Gluten-free bread works well in this recipe and makes it accessible for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Is bread and butter pudding suitable for kids?

Yes, its mild sweetness and creamy texture make it a favorite among children and adults alike.

Can I prepare bread and butter pudding in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the pudding ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking, saving you time on busy days.

What is the best bread to use for this pudding?

Rich breads like brioche, challah, or even a good quality white bread are ideal for absorbing custard and adding flavor.

How can I make the pudding less sweet?

Simply reduce the sugar amount in the custard or skip sweeter add-ins while balancing flavors with vanilla or spices.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about bread and butter pudding, combining simplicity with incredible flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a reliable, delicious dessert that brings comfort and joy, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this timeless delight—you won’t regret making bread and butter pudding a regular favorite in your kitchen!

Bread and butter pudding

Print Recipe

Bread and butter pudding is a classic, comforting dessert made by layering buttery bread slices soaked in a sweet, creamy custard, then baked to a golden, indulgent finish. Perfect for transforming day-old bread into a warm, nostalgic treat, this versatile recipe can be customized with fruits, spices, or chocolate for personalized flavor variations.

Author: Mary
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British
Diet: Gluten Free Available

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

6–8 slices day-old bread (thick-sliced brioche or challah recommended)
Butter, softened, for spreading (about 2-3 tbsp)
3 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins

1/3 cup raisins or sultanas
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Fresh berries or chopped apples (1 cup)
1/3 cup chocolate chips
Chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts (1/4 cup)
Spices like cardamom (1/4 tsp)

Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Slice the day-old bread evenly and spread a thin layer of softened butter on each slice to add richness and help achieve a crisp top.
Layer the Bread: Arrange the buttered bread slices in a greased baking dish, slightly overlapping to form layers. If using raisins, fruits, or nuts, sprinkle them evenly between the bread layers.
Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Pour Custard Over Bread: Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, ensuring each piece is well soaked. Let the pudding rest for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pudding uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set but gently wobbly in the center.

Notes

Choose thick slices of brioche or challah for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t skip buttering the bread; it creates the signature crisp and richness.
Allow the custard to soak into the bread before baking for a juicier pudding.
Bake at a moderate temperature and avoid rushing to prevent drying out the custard.
Add texture and flavor contrast by sprinkling nuts or a crumble topping on before baking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of recipe)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: bread and butter pudding, custard dessert, comforting dessert, easy dessert, classic pudding, leftover bread dessert, baked pudding, creamy dessert