Name: Irish Bread Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 4 cups cubed stale bread; 2 cups milk; 3 large eggs; 1 cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup raisins or currants; 1/4 cup melted butter; Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a satisfying and heartwarming dessert. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover bread while creating something that feels special. The custard-infused bread becomes soft and rich, contrasted by the occasional burst of sweetness from raisins. With its cozy flavors and simple preparation, this is a dessert that never goes out of style.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups cubed stale bread
2 cups milk
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup raisins or currants
1/4 cup melted butter
Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine cubed bread with melted butter and set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all bread is well soaked.
Gently fold in raisins or currants.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of Irish cream liqueur to the custard for extra richness.
Use brioche or challah for a softer, sweeter texture.
Swap raisins for chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or mixed dried fruit.
Sprinkle chocolate chips over the bread before baking for a decadent twist.
Replace milk with a mix of milk and cream for an even creamier pudding.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. Bread pudding can also be served cold, but its flavor and texture are best when slightly warmed.

FAQs

Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the pudding and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours before baking.

What’s the best bread to use?

Stale white bread, French bread, brioche, or challah all work well.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.

Do I have to use raisins?

No. You can skip them or use other dried fruits like apricots or cranberries.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The pudding should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Is this served hot or cold?

It’s best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Can I freeze bread pudding?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I make it richer?

Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can cut the sugar by up to 1/4 without significantly affecting the texture.

Conclusion

Irish Bread Pudding is a timeless dessert that celebrates simplicity, warmth, and comfort. With its golden crust, soft custard interior, and sweet bursts of fruit, it’s a dish that turns humble ingredients into something truly memorable.