French Toast Bread Pudding: 7 Secrets for a Perfect Dessert

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French Toast Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of classic French toast with a rich custard soaked in bread. This comforting dish is perfect for breakfast or dessert, and it’s easy to make. Imagine the aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as it bakes, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This French Toast Bread Pudding

This French toast casserole is not only incredibly delicious, but it also offers several benefits that make it a must-try:

Rich, custardy texture that melts in your mouth.
Ideal for using up day-old bread, reducing waste.
Versatile—you can add chocolate chips or berries.
Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Served warm, it pairs perfectly with maple syrup.
Great as a comforting dessert or a hearty breakfast.
Can be made ahead of time for easy meal prep.

This recipe is a classic American dessert that is popular for its comforting familiarity and delicious flavors.

Ingredients for French Toast Bread Pudding

Gather these items:

1 loaf of day-old bread (preferably brioche or challah)
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

How to Make French Toast Bread Pudding Step-by-Step

Step 1: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large bowl.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, gently stirring to ensure all pieces are coated. If using, fold in raisins or chocolate chips.
Step 5: Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes, letting the bread absorb the custard.
Step 6: Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 7: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Step 9: For extra flair, dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best French Toast Bread Pudding

Keep these in mind:

Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
Serve warm with maple syrup for added sweetness.
Use the best bread for French toast pudding to achieve the best flavor and texture.
Let it soak longer for an even creamier texture.

Best Ways to Serve French Toast Bread Pudding

There are many delicious ways to enjoy this dish:

Serve it warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert.
Top with fresh berries for a burst of flavor.

How to Store and Reheat French Toast Bread Pudding

To store your leftovers, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dessert throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Toast Bread Pudding

What’s the secret to perfect French Toast Bread Pudding?

The secret lies in using day-old bread, which absorbs the custard mixture better, resulting in a moist and flavorful pudding.

Can I make French Toast Bread Pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free brunch option.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Toast Bread Pudding?

Ensure the bread is stale enough and allow it to soak long enough to absorb the custard mixture thoroughly for the best results.

Variations of French Toast Bread Pudding You Can Try

Here are some delightful variations you can experiment with:

French toast bread pudding with cream cheese adds a creamy layer for richness.
Try overnight French toast bread pudding for an easy breakfast option.
Incorporate seasonal fruits like apples or pears for a fresh twist.
For chocolate lovers, add chocolate chips to the mix.

French Toast Bread Pudding: 7 Secrets for a Perfect Dessert - French Toast Bread Pudding - main visual representation

Incredible homemade French Toast Bread Pudding fresh from the oven.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Apple Bundt Cake Recipe and Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet. You can also explore our Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken for a savory option.

French Toast Bread Pudding: 7 Secrets for a Perfect Dessert - French Toast Bread Pudding - additional detail

For more information on the benefits of using day-old bread, visit The Kitchn.