Bourbon-Caramel Bread Pudding

Bourbon-Caramel Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that combines soft, custardy bread cubes with a luscious bourbon-infused caramel sauce. Rich, gooey, and full of deep flavor, it’s a soul-satisfying dish that pays homage to classic Southern baking traditions. Perfect for holidays or special dinners, this dessert turns simple ingredients into a truly decadent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and indulgent with deep caramel flavor
• Easy to prepare with basic pantry ingredients
• Perfect for using up leftover bread
• A crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion
• Elegant enough for entertaining, comforting enough for casual meals
• Can be made in advance
• Features a bold, buttery bourbon sauce
• Delicious warm or cold
• Customizable with add-ins like raisins or nuts
• A classic Southern dessert with a modern twist

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bread Pudding:

• Day-old French bread or brioche (cubed)
• Eggs
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Salt

For the Bourbon-Caramel Sauce:

• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Heavy cream
• Bourbon
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

directions

1. Prepare the Bread: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Place the bread cubes in the dish.
2. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Assemble and Bake: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until golden and set in the center.
4. Make the Bourbon-Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cook until dissolved. Add heavy cream, bourbon, vanilla, and salt. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Serve: Spoon warm caramel sauce over bread pudding and serve immediately. Optional: top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45–50 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• No-Bourbon Version: Omit the bourbon or substitute with vanilla or maple extract.
• Add-Ins: Incorporate raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped pecans into the pudding.
• Fruit Twist: Add sliced apples, pears, or bananas for extra texture and sweetness.
• Spiced: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a warmer spice profile.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and cream alternatives along with vegan butter.
• Mini Servings: Prepare in individual ramekins for elegant single portions.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Reheat the caramel sauce separately on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
Bread pudding can also be frozen (without the sauce) for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate for several hours or overnight before baking. Prepare the sauce just before serving.

What type of bread is best?

Brioche, challah, or French bread works best due to their texture and ability to soak up the custard.

Can I make it without bourbon?

Yes, simply leave it out or replace it with vanilla extract or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.

How do I know when the pudding is done?

The center should be set and slightly puffed, and a knife inserted should come out clean.

Is it served hot or cold?

It is traditionally served warm, but it also tastes excellent at room temperature or cold.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, but homemade bourbon caramel enhances the flavor and freshness of the dessert.

What can I serve with bread pudding?

It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time accordingly.

Is this dessert very sweet?

It is richly sweet, but you can adjust the sugar in both the custard and the sauce to your taste.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the texture may be slightly lighter.

Conclusion

Bourbon-Caramel Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a truly indulgent treat. With its soft, custardy interior, crisp edges, and rich caramel bourbon sauce, it’s a showstopper that’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or just because. Make it once, and it may quickly become a favorite go-to dessert.

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