Grandma’s Creamy Bread Pudding: A Taste of Tradition

As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, I can’t help but think about the days spent in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. The rich aroma of cinnamon wafted through the air, mingling with the smell of baking bread; it was a scent that felt like home. My grandmother, with her well-worn apron and twinkling eyes, would take the simplest of ingredients—stale bread, eggs, milk, and spices—and transform them into the most decadent bread pudding.

This creamy, custardy dessert became our family’s seasonal tradition, served warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce while laughter filled the room. Each bite was a reminder of her love and the memories we made together in that sunlit kitchen. Today, I’m sharing her beloved recipe for Grandma’s Creamy Bread Pudding, a dish that is perfect for any autumn gathering or chilly night. It’s sure to become a family favorite that warms the heart and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Pudding Dough

Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples.
One-Bowl Wonder: Minimal cleanup required.
Kid-Approved: A delightful treat that children love.
Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack!
Golden Brown Bliss: Bakes to perfection with a crispy top and creamy center.

Ingredients

6 cups stale bread, cubed
2 cups whole milk
4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
1/2 cup caramel sauce (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Assemble the Bread Pudding

Fold in the cubed stale bread. If using raisins, add them now, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Cool and Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Drizzle with caramel sauce before enjoying!

Tips & Variations

Add More Spice: Experiment with different spices like cloves or ginger for an extra kick.
Swap Breads: Try brioche, challah, or croissants for a richer flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 260
Servings: 8

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
Fresh bread can be used, but it won’t have the same texture, and you may need to reduce the liquid slightly.

2. Can I omit the raisins?
Absolutely! Feel free to leave them out or substitute with dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or nuts.

3. How do I make it gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free bread as a substitute to make this treat suitable for a gluten-free diet.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast or side.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

Pair with Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee complements the flavor perfectly.
Top with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delicious contrast to the warm pudding.
Serve with Fresh Fruit: Slices of apple or pear are delightful alongside this dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Grandma’s Creamy Bread Pudding as much as I loved creating it in my grandmother’s kitchen. This recipe is not just about the pudding; it’s about family, memories, and the joy of sharing good food. I’d love to hear how your version turns out, so please share your thoughts or any tweaks you made in the comments below! Happy cooking!