| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Soaking Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 35 minutes |
| Skill Level / Intensity | Easy to Intermediate (Requires gentle oven heating and custard whisking) |
| Servings | 8 portions |
| Oven Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
Ingredients
The Bread Pudding
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Bread Base: 8 cups stale challah, brioche, or French bread (cut into 1-inch cubes)
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Dairy Base: 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream
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Eggs: 4 large whole eggs, plus 2 extra egg yolks
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Sweeteners: 3/4 cup granulated white sugar, 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
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Fats: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
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Aromatics & Spices: 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
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Optional Mix-ins: 1/2 cup raisins, dried cranberries, or toasted chopped pecans
Warm Bourbon Caramel Sauce
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1/2 cup unsalted butter
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
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2 tablespoons bourbon (or sub 1 teaspoon additional vanilla extract)
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1 pinch sea salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Storage & Shelf Life
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Refrigeration: Store cooled leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
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Freezing: Wrap individual sliced portions in parchment paper and aluminum foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds, or bake covered with foil at 325°F (160°C) for 15 minutes until warm throughout.
Nutritional Information
Values are estimated per serving (1 portion out of 8, including sauce).
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving | % Daily Value* |
| Calories | 485 kcal | — |
| Total Fat | 24g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 14g | 70% |
| Trans Fat | 0.5g | — |
| Cholesterol | 165mg | 55% |
| Sodium | 380mg | 17% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 56g | 20% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Total Sugars | 34g | — |
| Protein | 9g | 18% |
| Vitamin D | 1.2mcg | 6% |
| Calcium | 140mg | 11% |
| Iron | 2.1mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 210mg | 4% |
