When you’re short on time but craving something warm, comforting, and homemade, bread pudding is the perfect solution. It uses simple ingredients you probably already have — bread, eggs, milk, and sugar — and turns them into a cozy dessert that tastes like a big warm hug.
This easy bread pudding recipe for busy days comes together in minutes, bakes beautifully, and can be enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat. Let’s make it!
⭐ Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Base Ingredients
6 cups bread cubes (stale bread works best!)
Use white, brioche, challah, or leftover sandwich bread.
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
3 large eggs
½ cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
¼ cup melted butter
Optional Add-ins
½ cup raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts
Fresh fruit like apples or berries
A drizzle of caramel or cream for serving
🔥 Easy Bread Pudding Recipe (Step-by-Step)
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Prep the Bread
Cut your bread into cubes.
Place bread in the greased baking dish.
Sprinkle raisins or other add-ins if using.
Tip: Older bread absorbs the custard better, giving a richer texture.
3. Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together:
Eggs
Milk
Sugar
Vanilla
Cinnamon
Nutmeg (optional)
Melted butter
Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
4. Combine & Soak
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread.
Gently press down with a spoon to help the bread absorb the liquid.
Let soak for 10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes if you have time).
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until:
The top is golden
The center is set
The edges look slightly crispy
If it jiggles a little in the center, that’s okay — it firms up as it cools.
6. Serve Warm
Serve your bread pudding:
Warm with a drizzle of cream
Topped with ice cream
With caramel or chocolate sauce
Or just sprinkled with powdered sugar
Perfect comfort food for busy days!
🌟 Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days
5 minutes of prep
Uses simple pantry ingredients
Great for using leftover bread
Customizable with whatever you have
Bakes while you continue your day
Delicious warm or cold
🍁 Flavor Variations to Try
Apple Cinnamon
Add 1 chopped apple + extra cinnamon.
Chocolate Lover’s
Mix in chocolate chips + drizzle with chocolate sauce.
Berry Bread Pudding
Stir in blueberries or raspberries.
Banana Caramel
Add sliced bananas + caramel topping.
Maple Pecan
Use maple syrup instead of sugar + chopped pecans.
🧠 Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding Every Time
Use stale bread for best texture.
Don’t skip soaking — it helps avoid dry bites.
If using soft breads like brioche, shorten baking time by 5 minutes.
Add a bit more milk if you like a softer, “custard-style” pudding.
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or toaster oven — tastes just as good!
🎉 Conclusion: The Best Easy Bread Pudding Recipe for Busy Days
This simple, delicious recipe is ideal for anyone who wants a sweet homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are flexible, the steps are simple, and the result is warm, cozy, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking anytime.