Print

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is a rich Southern dessert made with spiced custard-soaked bread, raisins, and topped with a warm bourbon sauce. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf French bread (14–16 ounces), torn into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 cups milk
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted

Bourbon Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup bourbon (or whiskey)

Instructions

  1. Tear or cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and place in a large bowl.
  2. Pour milk over the bread and let soak. Crush with hands until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, vanilla, allspice, and cinnamon. Stir in raisins.
  4. Pour the egg mixture into the soaked bread and stir well. Let sit for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 13×9-inch baking dish.
  6. Transfer the bread mixture into the dish and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until set and golden.
  7. Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
  8. For the bourbon sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
  9. Slowly whisk in the beaten egg, stirring constantly. Cook until slightly thickened.
  10. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon. Drizzle warm sauce over the bread pudding before serving.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for best texture and custard absorption.
  • Replace raisins with dried cranberries, dates, or chocolate chips.
  • Use vanilla extract instead of bourbon for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Top with toasted nuts for added crunch.
  • Reheat slices in the oven to maintain texture; sauce can be reheated separately.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/classic-new-orleans-bread-pudding/