Few desserts capture the heart and soul of Southern cuisine quite like New Orleans Bread Pudding. This rich, custardy dessert is the perfect way to turn day-old bread into something truly special. Infused with warm spices, creamy custard, and a decadent bourbon sauce, every bite is pure indulgence. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, Mardi Gras celebrations, or a cozy family dessert, this soul-warming classic is always a hit.
What makes this bread pudding so incredibly good? It starts with French bread, which soaks up a luscious mixture of whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. As it bakes, the edges turn beautifully golden and crisp, while the inside remains soft, custardy, and packed with flavor. The optional raisins add a touch of sweetness, but the real magic happens when you drizzle it with a warm, buttery bourbon sauce.
New Orleans is famous for its bold flavors and indulgent desserts, and this bread pudding is no exception. The bourbon sauce brings a rich, caramel-like depth, balancing perfectly with the warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors. If you love a little extra indulgence, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate Southern treat.
Not only is this dessert simple to make, but it’s also a great way to use up leftover bread. It’s a comforting, nostalgic dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals, family gatherings, and lively celebrations in the heart of New Orleans. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or enjoying the leftovers the next day, this bread pudding is guaranteed to impress.
So, if you’re craving a warm, comforting dessert that’s easy to prepare yet loaded with flavor, this New Orleans Bread Pudding is the one to try. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon, vanilla, and bourbon—and don’t be surprised if everyone comes back for seconds!
⏳ Ready in: 1 hour
🍽️ Servings: 6-8 servings
🛒 Ingredients :
For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups day-old French bread, cubed 🍞
- 2 cups whole milk 🥛
- 1 cup heavy cream 🥄
- ¾ cup granulated sugar 🧂
- 3 large eggs 🥚
- 2 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
- 1 tsp cinnamon 🌿
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ cup raisins (optional) 🍇
- 2 tbsp melted butter 🧈
For the Bourbon Sauce:
- ½ cup butter 🧈
- 1 cup brown sugar 🍯
- ½ cup heavy cream 🥛
- ¼ cup bourbon 🥃
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
🔥 Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2️⃣ Soak the Bread: In a large mixing bowl, soak the cubed French bread in milk and heavy cream for about 10 minutes to soften.
3️⃣ Prepare the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture over the soaked bread and stir gently to combine. If using, fold in the raisins.
4️⃣ Bake the Bread Pudding: Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, drizzle with melted butter, and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
5️⃣ Make the Bourbon Sauce: While the pudding bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, then simmer for 2 minutes. Add the bourbon and vanilla extract, cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Let the bread pudding cool slightly, then drizzle with the warm bourbon sauce. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
❓FAQs
Can I make this without bourbon?
Yes! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the bourbon with vanilla extract or extra heavy cream for a rich, flavorful sauce.
What type of bread is best for bread pudding?
French bread works best because it absorbs the custard while still holding its shape. You can also use brioche, challah, or even croissants for an extra buttery texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the bread pudding ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I serve with bread pudding?
This dessert is delicious on its own, but for extra indulgence, serve it with vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream.
