Description

This white chocolate bread pudding is a creamy, indulgent twist on a classic dessert. The custard-soaked bread, infused with rich white chocolate, bakes into a soft, pillowy texture with a golden, slightly crisp top. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s perfect for any occasion.

This easy-to-make dessert serves 8 people and is vegetarian-friendly. Pair it with a vanilla sauce, caramel drizzle, or fresh berries for an extra-special treat.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding:

6 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (brioche, challah, or French bread)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
3 large eggs
½ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the White Chocolate Sauce (Optional but Recommended!):

½ cup white chocolate chips
⅓ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Custard

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Place stale bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. If the bread is fresh, toast it in the oven for 5-7 minutes to dry it out.

Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate

In a saucepan over medium heat, heat the milk and heavy cream until warm but not boiling.
Remove from heat and stir in the white chocolate. Whisk until completely melted and smooth.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined.
Slowly pour the warm white chocolate mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.

Step 4: Assemble and Soak

Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure all pieces are well coated.
Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.

Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.

Step 6: Make the White Chocolate Sauce (Optional but Amazing!)

In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat.
Add the white chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the bread pudding cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Drizzle with white chocolate sauce, caramel, or top with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Notes

✅ Use Day-Old Bread – Stale bread soaks up the custard better without becoming too mushy.
✅ Don’t Overbake – The center should be slightly jiggly when removed from the oven.
✅ Enhance the Flavor – Add orange zest, bourbon, or a sprinkle of sea salt for depth.
✅ Customize It – Try adding dried fruits, nuts, or coconut for texture and variety.
✅ Pair It With Ice Cream – Serve warm with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a luxurious dessert.

Prep Time: 15 min
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: Southern, American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 385 kcal
Sugar: 36g
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g