Golden Caramel Bread Pudding

A rich, cozy dessert made with crunchy toasted bread cubes soaked in a creamy custard, topped with a buttery golden caramel sauce. It’s a true classic with timeless flavor — and endlessly adaptable.

 Servings: 6–8

 Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes (includes prep and baking)

 Ingredients:

For the Bread Pudding:

• 6 cups of bread cubes (day-old bread like brioche, challah, or French bread works best)

• 3 large eggs

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Golden Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• A pinch of salt (or more to taste)

 Step-by-Step Instructions:

 Step 1: Toast the Bread Cubes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cut your bread into bite-sized cubes (1-inch pieces).

3. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

4. Toast in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until golden and slightly crispy.

5. Remove and allow to cool slightly.

6. Toasting helps the bread soak up custard without falling apart.

 Step 2: Prepare the Custard Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

   • 3 eggs

   • 1 1/2 cups whole milk

   • 1/2 cup heavy cream

   • 1/2 cup sugar

   • 1 tsp vanilla extract

   • 1/2 tsp cinnamon

   • 1/4 tsp salt

2. Once fully combined, add the toasted bread cubes into the bowl.

3. Stir gently to coat the bread evenly in the custard mixture.

4. Let sit for 15–20 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the custard.

5. This soaking time gives the pudding its rich, custardy texture.

 Step 3: Assemble & Bake the Pudding

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or use individual ramekins).

2. Pour the soaked bread mixture into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

3. Bake in your preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until:

   • The center is just set, and

   • The top is lightly golden brown.

   • Don’t overbake or it can dry out. A slight jiggle in the center is fine—it will firm as it cools.

 Step 4: Make the Golden Caramel Sauce

While the pudding is baking:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine:

   • 1 cup sugar

   • 1/2 cup water

2. Heat over medium heat, stirring just until the sugar dissolves.

3. Once dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture boil.

4. Cook for 5–7 minutes, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a deep amber color.

5. Watch closely: caramel can go from perfect to burned quickly.

5. Once golden, remove from heat and carefully stir in:

   • 2 tablespoons butter

   • 1/2 cup heavy cream

   • A pinch of salt

6. The mixture will bubble rapidly — stir until smooth.

7. Add more salt for a salted caramel version.

 Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Once baked, remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5–10 minutes.

2. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce generously over the pudding.

3. Serve warm — optionally with extra caramel on the side, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.

 Optional Customizations:

• Add-ins: Raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts can be added before baking.

• Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans or toasted almonds for a crunchy finish.

• Flavor Twist: Add a splash of rum, bourbon, or orange zest to the custard.

• Serving Idea: Serve with berry compote or vanilla ice cream.

 Summary:

Golden Caramel Bread Pudding is the perfect comfort dessert — soft and creamy on the inside, crisp on top, and elevated with a decadent caramel drizzle. It’s perfect for cozy nights, special occasions, or just using up leftover bread.

 Final Thoughts:

Whether you make it as a weeknight indulgence or a crowd-pleasing dessert, this rich, golden pudding is bound to win hearts. The warm, gooey caramel over soft custard-soaked bread is pure bliss.

Enjoy every spoonful! 🍮
Let me know if you’d like a gluten-free version or how to make it ahead of time.