Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding with Butter Sauce 🍞✨
This Southern classic transforms simple ingredients into a rich, custardy delight with a golden, slightly crisp top. The warm buttery sauce adds a sweet, caramel-like finish, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Rich & Custardy – Every bite melts in your mouth!
✅ Great for Leftover Bread – No waste, just pure indulgence.
✅ Sweet Buttery Sauce – A warm, caramel-like drizzle makes all the difference.
✅ Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate, or spices to suit your taste.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing – Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or potlucks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread Pudding:
• 6 cups cubed French bread (or brioche, about 1-inch cubes)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Optional: 1 cup raisins, chopped pecans, or chocolate chips
For the Butter Sauce:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish. If using raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips, sprinkle them over the bread.
Step 2: Make the Custard
1️⃣ In a bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
2️⃣ Pour the mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press down gently with a spatula so the bread soaks up the custard. Let sit for 15–20 minutes.
Step 3: Bake the Bread Pudding
1️⃣ Bake for 45–50 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean.
Step 4: Make the Butter Sauce
1️⃣ While the pudding bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2️⃣ Stir in brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, until smooth (about 3–5 minutes).
3️⃣ Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
1️⃣ Slice the warm bread pudding and drizzle generously with the butter sauce.
2️⃣ Serve immediately for the ultimate comfort dessert!
Why This Recipe Works
✔ The custard-soaked bread turns velvety and rich.
✔ The crisp, golden top contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
✔ The buttery sauce ties everything together with a warm, caramel-like finish.
Creative Variations
🔹 Nutty Crunch – Add chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
🔹 Chocolate Lover’s Twist – Stir in chocolate chips or drizzle with melted chocolate.
🔹 Extra Spice – Add a pinch of cloves, cardamom, or allspice for warmth.
🔹 Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free bread for a dietary-friendly version.
Tips for Success
✔ Use Stale Bread – It soaks up custard better, creating a richer texture.
✔ Soak Thoroughly – Letting the bread absorb the custard ensures even moisture.
✔ Avoid Overbaking – Check doneness with a knife; it should come out clean.
✔ Store Leftovers – Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
✔ Make Ahead – Assemble ahead, refrigerate overnight, and bake when ready.