Salted Caramel Bread Pudding Recipe
This Salted Caramel Bread Pudding is a deliciously comforting dessert that combines soft, custard-soaked bread with a rich salted caramel sauce. Perfectly baked until golden and topped with a decadent caramel drizzle, it’s a satisfying treat ideal for cozy gatherings or a sweet indulgence any time of year.
- Author: Mick
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
For the Bread Pudding Custard
- 6 cups of day-old bread, cut into cubes (about 12 slices, preferably brioche or challah)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Prepare the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth. This custard mixture will soak into the bread to create a creamy texture.
- Assemble the Bread Pudding: Place the cubed bread evenly in a greased baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing down gently with a spatula or your hands to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to fully soak.
- Bake the Pudding: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the soaked bread pudding uncovered in the oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Make the Salted Caramel Sauce: While the pudding bakes, heat the granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally until the sugar melts into an amber-colored liquid. Carefully add the butter and stir until melted and combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Let it cool slightly.
- Serve: Once the bread pudding is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the warm salted caramel sauce generously over the pudding before serving for a luscious finish.
Notes
- Day-old or slightly stale bread works best for bread pudding as it absorbs the custard better.
- You can prepare the custard and assemble the pudding a day ahead and refrigerate before baking to enhance flavors.
- Adjust the salt in the caramel sauce to your taste preference for a sweeter or more salted caramel.
- For a richer pudding, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream in the custard.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Keywords: Salted caramel, bread pudding, custard dessert, baked dessert, caramel sauce