The Best Bread Pudding: Brown Butter Bourbon Bliss

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Immerse yourself in the warm, nostalgic flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and a hint of bourbon with this spectacular bread pudding. It’s soft in the middle, caramelized on top, and guaranteed to steal the spotlight at the dinner table or any cozy weekend brunch.

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Ingredients

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  • 1 loaf of day-old bread (preferably brioche or challah)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional but recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Begin by cutting the bread into thick cubes, about one inch in size, and spread them out in a greased baking dish. Next, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, allowing it to bubble gently until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma—just a few minutes should do. Let this cool slightly.

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In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, bourbon (if using), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Slowly drizzle in the brown butter while whisking, creating a luxurious batter. Carefully pour the mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Let the pudding soak for about 15 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the bread has absorbed the custard, bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is irresistibly golden and the center shows only the slightest jiggle. Allow it to rest for a few minutes to set, then garnish with a little extra cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

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This Brown Butter Bourbon Bliss Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert that’s perfect for gatherings or a quiet weekend treat. If you’d prefer a lighter version, swap in low-fat milk or almond milk, and consider stirring in some dried fruit or nuts for extra texture. It’s a beautifully versatile dish that suits anyone craving a touch of indulgence without much fuss—your tastebuds will thank you!

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.