Simple Bread Pudding Recipe: Warm Comforting Custard Baked Golden With Sweet Raisins

This simple bread pudding recipe turns humble, day-old bread into a warm, comforting custard baked golden with sweet raisins.

It is an effortless, classic dessert that delivers rich vanilla flavor with perfectly crisp, caramelized edges.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Bake time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 6 cups stale brioche, challah, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

• 1/2 cup seedless raisins

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Prep the oven and dish: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round ceramic baking dish or an 8x8-inch square pan with a little butter.

2. Layer the bread and fruit: Spread the cubed bread evenly across the baking dish. Scatter the raisins throughout, tucking some under the cubes so they do not scorch while baking.

3. Whisk the custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and combined.

4. Soak: Pour the custard mixture slowly over the bread, pressing down gently with a spatula so every piece absorbs the liquid. Let it rest on the counter for 10 minutes to fully saturate.

5. Bake: Place on the center rack and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is puffed and deep golden brown, and the center is set (a knife inserted into the middle should come out mostly clean).

6. Finish and serve: Cool for 10 minutes, lightly dust the top with powdered sugar, and serve warm.