Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Cut your day-old bread into cubes roughly 1-inch in size. Stale bread works best because it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy. Place the bread cubes into the prepared baking dish evenly.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to create a well-combined custard mixture. Finally, stir in the melted butter for richness.

Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all pieces are soaked. Gently press down the bread with a spatula so that the custard is absorbed evenly. If you like raisins or dried cranberries, sprinkle them evenly over the top now.

Step 5: Let it Soak (Optional)

For a more custardy pudding, cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it soak for 30 minutes at room temperature. This allows the bread to absorb the custard fully.

Step 6: Bake the Pudding

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You can test it by inserting a knife into the center — it should come out clean but the pudding should still be soft.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. This dessert is delicious warm or at room temperature. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top or drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream elevates it even more.

Tips for Success

• Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best texture. Fresh bread can make the pudding soggy.
• Customize your add-ins: chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or apple slices work wonderfully.
• Make ahead: Bread pudding can be assembled a day in advance and refrigerated, then baked the next day.

Grandma’s old-fashioned bread pudding is more than a dessert — it’s a slice of nostalgia and comfort. Its warm, custardy center paired with a golden top makes it the perfect ending to a family meal or a sweet treat for a cozy afternoon. Whether served with ice cream, caramel sauce, or simply on its own, this timeless classic never fails to bring smiles.

If you want, I can also give you a version with a rich bourbon caramel sauce to make it extra indulgent—this really takes it to the next level. Do you want me to do that?