A Sweet Taste of New Orleans Comfort

There’s something magical about the way Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding brings people together. Warm, custardy, and drizzled with buttery bourbon sauce — it’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes with every bite. I remember the first time I tried it in a small café in the French Quarter — sweet jazz playing in the background, rain tapping on the windows, and that heavenly aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filling the air. Ever since, it’s been my go-to dessert when I want to bring a little Southern soul into my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Because it’s pure comfort — simple ingredients, minimal effort, and a flavor that feels like a warm hug. This is the perfect way to use up leftover bread and turn it into something truly special. The outside bakes to a golden crisp, while the inside stays soft, creamy, and rich. And that bourbon sauce? It’s the finishing touch that turns this humble dessert into something unforgettable.

Nutritional Benefits (Yes, Even Dessert Can Have Some!)

While this dessert is indulgent, it still offers a few surprising perks. The eggs and milk add protein and calcium, while the cinnamon helps balance blood sugar levels. You can even swap in whole-grain bread for a bit of extra fiber. Plus, it’s made with real, wholesome ingredients — no mystery additives or preservatives — which makes it a dessert you can feel good about enjoying once in a while.

Fun & Easy Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Add a handful of chocolate chips or chunks between the bread layers for a richer twist.
• Fruit & Nut Delight: Toss in raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped pecans for texture and a hint of sweetness.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk — the flavor will be just as comforting!
• Without Alcohol: Replace bourbon in the sauce with vanilla extract or a splash of apple juice for a family-friendly version.

Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 cups day-old French bread, cut into cubes
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

For the Bourbon Sauce

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons bourbon (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon water (to adjust consistency)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Soak the bread: In a large bowl, combine milk and cream. Add the bread cubes and let them soak for about 10–15 minutes, until the bread absorbs most of the liquid.
3. Make the custard: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter. Pour this mixture over the soaked bread and stir gently to combine. Add raisins if using.
4. Bake: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown on top and set in the center.
5. Prepare the bourbon sauce: While the pudding bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in powdered sugar and bourbon (or vanilla). Add a tablespoon of water if needed to thin the sauce to your liking. Keep warm.
6. Serve: Spoon the warm bread pudding into bowls and drizzle generously with the bourbon sauce. Add a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling extra fancy!

Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding

• Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread soaks up the custard better, giving you that perfect creamy texture inside.
• Don’t overmix: Stir gently so you don’t break the bread — you want those rustic chunks!
• Serve warm: It’s best enjoyed straight from the oven when the sauce seeps into every bite.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Warm it in the oven or microwave before serving — it’ll taste just as heavenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make bread pudding ahead of time? Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next day for best results.
2. What kind of bread works best? French bread is traditional, but brioche or challah also create a rich, velvety texture.
3. Can I skip the bourbon? Absolutely! Substitute it with vanilla extract or caramel sauce for a non-alcoholic version that’s equally delicious.
4. Why is my bread pudding soggy? It may be underbaked. Make sure the center is set and springs back slightly when touched.

Your Turn to Enjoy This Southern Classic!

If you’ve never tried making Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding at home, this is your sign to do it! It’s the ultimate dessert for sharing — rich, comforting, and impossible to resist. When you make it, don’t forget to snap a photo and share it on Pinterest — I’d love to see your sweet creations and how you add your own twist to this beloved Southern dessert! 🍮✨