Warm, buttery vanilla custard bread pudding feels like a hug in dessert form. We’re using day-old brioche and swirls of vanilla to build layers of cozy flavor, then baking it until golden and tender. Finish with a drizzle of homemade vanilla sauce for the ultimate comfort treat, perfect for rounding out a family dinner with something special.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy .
Why This Bread Pudding Feels Like Home
- Rich, Creamy Texture – The combination of whole milk and heavy cream creates an ultra-luscious custard.
- Perfect for Stale Bread – Give day-old bread a delicious second life with this cozy dessert.
- Family-Friendly Treat – A timeless baked custard soaked bread dessert everyone will adore.
What You’ll Need for Vanilla Custard Bread Pudding
For the bread pudding
- Day-old bread – Cut into cubes for the best texture, and slightly stale bread works wonders.
- Eggs – Make sure they’re at room temperature for a smooth custard.
- Whole milk – Essential for that rich, creamy base.
- Heavy cream – Adds decadence and keeps the pudding ultra-luscious.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens things up perfectly.
- Pure vanilla extract – Don’t skimp on quality here; it’s the star of the flavor.
- Ground cinnamon – Just a pinch for a warm, cozy note.
- Kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
For the finishing touches
- Unsalted butter – Melt and drizzle over the top for a golden, buttery crust.
- Raisins or chocolate chips – Optional, but a lovely addition for a little texture and sweetness.
A Sunday Bake Worth the Wait
I love how this vanilla custard bread pudding turns a slow afternoon into something special. You’ll spend about 20 minutes getting everything ready, then it bakes for 50 minutes. In just over an hour, you’ll have a golden brown cinnamon raisin pudding that fills the whole house with the most comforting aroma.
It’s the kind of weekend cooking ritual that feels grounding and joyful. While it bakes, you can set the table, maybe even whip up a simple vanilla custard berry compote to serve on the side. The hands-off baking time is a gift—a little moment of calm before everyone gathers around the table.
Vanilla Custard Bread Pudding
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips optional
Equipment
- oven
- baking dish
- spatula
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the 6 cups of bread cubes in the prepared baking dish, spreading them into an even layer. If using, sprinkle the 1/2 cup of raisins or chocolate chips evenly over the bread.
- In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the 4 eggs, 2 cups milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 3/4 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the mixture is completely smooth and the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on any floating pieces to help them absorb the liquid. Let the dish sit undisturbed for 15 minutes so the bread soaks up the custard.
- Drizzle the 4 tablespoons of melted butter evenly over the top of the soaked bread pudding.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and puffed, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The pudding should feel firm around the edges and set in the middle.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
If you’re sugar conscious or looking for a low sugar option, this recipe is wonderfully adaptable. I often bake for loved ones who are mindful of their glycemic intake, so I’ve learned a few simple swaps that keep all the cozy charm.
For a diabetic-friendly version, you can replace the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or xylitol. Another tip is to use whole grain bread for a slightly lower glycemic index. And remember, a smaller portion topped with fresh berries is always a beautiful, blood sugar friendly way to enjoy this treat.
My Favorite Ways to Make It Your Own
Over the years, I’ve made this vanilla custard bread pudding more times than I can count. Here are a few of my favorite tweaks that always feel like a hug from the kitchen.
- For a flavor swap, try adding a handful of rich chocolate chip bread pudding pieces instead of raisins.
- If you need a diet tweak, using plant-based milk and egg alternatives can work beautifully.
- For the best texture, let the bread soak up the custard for a full 15 minutes—it makes all the difference.
- To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. Gently reheat in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked warmth. It pairs wonderfully with a slice of cranberry walnut bread for breakfast the next day.
A Look at Its Simple Goodness
This creamy vanilla egg bread bake isn’t just delicious—it’s made with real, wholesome ingredients that bring comfort and joy. While it’s a treat, it also offers some nutritional benefits from the eggs and dairy, like protein and calcium.
Using day-old bread is a wonderful way to reduce food waste, which is something I always strive for in my kitchen. For more on balanced eating with simple, real foods, you can explore traditional custard preparation techniques that emphasize whole ingredients. If you’re curious about other nutrient-packed bakes, my cottage cheese bread is another family favorite.
A Lighter Take on a Classic Treat
If you’re craving the comfort of vanilla custard bread pudding but want a lighter version, I have a few gentle tweaks I love. You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream for a less rich but still delicious custard. Reducing the sugar by a quarter cup still gives you a lovely sweetness, especially if you add extra vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
For those avoiding dairy, almond or oat milk can be a great substitute. And if you’re looking for more inspiration for simple, wholesome baking, my banana bread and pumpkin bread recipes are both made with heart and mindful ingredients.
How to Serve It with Love
I’ll never forget the first time I made this for my daughter’s birthday brunch. She called it “cloud pudding” because of how soft and warm it was. We served it straight from the oven with a dollop of whipped cream, and it felt like we were celebrating something truly special.
This holiday bread pudding is wonderful with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. For a festive touch, try it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s the perfect ending to a family dinner, especially when you want something that feels both humble and celebratory.
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Even the coziest recipes have their tricks! Here are a few common pitfalls and how to sidestep them so your vanilla custard bread pudding turns out perfectly every time.
- Using bread that’s too fresh – Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without turning mushy.
- Not letting it soak – Give the bread a full 15 minutes to drink up the custard for a uniform texture.
- Overbaking – Remove it from the oven when the center is just set to keep it tender.
I learned some of these the hard way, but that’s how we grow in the kitchen, isn’t it? For more background on this beloved dessert, you can read about the history of bread pudding and its many variations. And if you’re a fan of custards, my flan recipe is another silky-smooth option to try.
How to Keep It Fresh for Later
There’s something so comforting about having leftover bread pudding waiting in the fridge. It reminds me of my grandmother, who always had a tin of something sweet on the counter for unexpected guests.
To store, let the pudding cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in a 300°F oven until warm. For more ideas on make-ahead baking, check out my snickerdoodle banana bread and chocolate banana bread—both freeze beautifully.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Kitchen
This easy vanilla custard dessert has been a part of so many family gatherings at my table. I hope it becomes a cherished recipe in your home too, one that you turn to when you want to create a moment of warmth and connection.
If you loved this vanilla custard bread pudding, you might also enjoy my pumpkin bread pudding, pumpkin chocolate chip bread, or lemon rhubarb loaf. Each one is made with the same love for simple, real food that brings people together.
Cozy Baking Projects for a Sweet Weekend
There’s nothing quite like spending a quiet morning in the kitchen with a warm oven and a good recipe. Here are a few more beloved bakes to try when you’re in the mood for something homemade.
Classic Vanilla Cake – A timeless, tender cake that’s perfect for any celebration.Crustless Quiche Lorraine – A savory bake that’s as elegant as it is easy.
Vanilla Custard Berry Compote – The perfect spoonful of summer to top your desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use custard in bread pudding?
Absolutely! The custard is what makes bread pudding so rich and creamy. In this recipe, we make a simple custard from eggs, milk, cream, and vanilla, which soaks into the bread before baking. It’s the heart of this cozy dessert.
What is the difference between vanilla pudding and vanilla custard?
Vanilla pudding is typically thickened with starch like cornstarch and cooked on the stovetop, while vanilla custard relies on eggs for thickening and is often baked. This bread pudding uses a baked custard base, giving it a firmer, set texture that’s perfect for slicing.
What is the custard topping for bread pudding?
While this recipe doesn’t require a separate topping, the custard itself becomes the star. As it bakes, it forms a golden, creamy layer that’s delicious on its own. For an extra treat, a simple vanilla sauce or berry compote poured over warm slices is heavenly.
What was Princess Diana’s favorite dessert?
Princess Diana was known to enjoy a variety of desserts, but one of her reported favorites was bread and butter pudding, a classic British treat very similar to this vanilla custard bread pudding. It’s a timeless comfort dessert loved by many for its simplicity and warmth.
