Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding Recipe:
🍞🍮 Introduction
Bread pudding is a beloved Southern dessert that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor! Originating from humble beginnings, this dish was born out of the need to make use of stale bread, transforming it into a comforting, indulgent treat. The New Orleans version, however, takes it to a whole new level with its decadent custard base, warm spices, and the addition of rum or bourbon sauce.
Whether you’re in the Crescent City or just craving a taste of its southern hospitality, this bread pudding will bring you all the cozy, sweet vibes. Perfect for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or just a quiet night in—this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
For the bread pudding:
- 6 cups of cubed day-old French bread (or any sturdy white bread)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (optional) raisins or other dried fruit (or bourbon-soaked raisins for extra kick)
For the Bourbon Sauce (optional but recommended!):
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp bourbon (or rum if you prefer)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut the bread into cubes (roughly 1-inch pieces). If your bread is fresh, let it sit out for a few hours or toast it in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out. Day-old bread works best because it soaks up the custard without turning too mushy.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Then, whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Bread & Custard
Add the cubed bread into the custard mixture and gently stir to coat each piece. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the custard. If you’re using raisins or dried fruit, stir them in at this point.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set (you can test by inserting a knife—it should come out clean).
Step 5: Make the Bourbon Sauce
While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the powdered sugar and stir until smooth and combined. Stir in the bourbon, vanilla extract, and salt. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 6: Serve
Once the bread pudding is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle the bourbon sauce generously over the top before serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes it even more indulgent!
Method Overview
This recipe follows the classic method of bread pudding but adds a modern Southern twist with a bourbon sauce. The key to a great bread pudding is the perfect custard-to-bread ratio—moist but not soggy, sweet but not overwhelming. The bread should soak up just enough of the custard mixture to create a soft, creamy texture with a slight custard-like center.
The bourbon sauce takes this dessert to the next level, adding a rich, boozy sweetness that complements the warm, comforting bread pudding.
A Little History of Bread Pudding
Bread pudding has its roots in ancient Europe, where the need to avoid food waste led to the creation of dishes using stale bread. It became especially popular in the United States during the 19th century. In New Orleans, bread pudding was adapted to use the city’s French and Creole flavors. As New Orleans cuisine evolved, the addition of vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and bourbon helped elevate this dessert to the iconic status it holds today.
The bourbon sauce, which is often drizzled over the pudding, is a signature touch in New Orleans bread pudding. It ties in the region’s love for bourbon and gives the dessert an extra layer of depth. In New Orleans, bread pudding is often enjoyed at both casual family meals and high-end restaurants, with each variation offering something a little different depending on who’s making it.
Conclusion: A Sweet Southern Tradition
New Orleans bread pudding is a dessert that tells a story—of old-world tradition, New Orleans’ French influence, and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re serving it at a festive occasion or simply making it to enjoy on a quiet evening, this bread pudding will bring warmth, comfort, and delicious sweetness into your home.
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s endlessly customizable—feel free to add your favorite dried fruits, nuts, or even a touch of chocolate chips for a fun twist. But no matter how you make it, this bread pudding will always be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in Every Bite – It’s rich, creamy, and satisfies your sweet tooth with every spoonful.
- Customizable – Play around with your favorite add-ins, from dried fruits to chocolate or nuts.
- A Taste of New Orleans – Enjoy the authentic flavor of the Crescent City in your own kitchen.
- Perfect for Sharing – A generous batch means plenty to go around for family, friends, and guests.
- Bourbon Sauce – The secret to making this truly special—extra boozy sweetness that takes it over the top.
So, if you’re ready to dig in, just comment “Recipe!” and I’ll share more about how to master the art of the perfect New Orleans bread pudding. 🍽️ Let’s make your next dessert unforgettable! 🎉
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