Easy Croissant Bread Pudding

Name: Easy Croissant Bread Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 6 stale croissants, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk (or almond/soy milk); 3/4 cup brown sugar (or granulated sugar); 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt

If you’re looking for a cozy, delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug, let me tell you about easy croissant bread pudding. Seriously, this is comfort food at its finest, and I can’t wait to share how easy—and delicious—it is to whip up this sweet treat! Imagine buttery croissants soaking in a creamy, dreamy custard. You’re going to love it!

What Is Easy Croissant Bread Pudding?

Easy croissant bread pudding is a simple yet indulgent dessert that transforms stale croissants into a rich, custardy delight. Think of it as a baked version of French toast, with soft, pillowy croissant pieces soaked in a sweet mixture of eggs, milk, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s perfect for brunch or as a cozy dessert after a long day. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover croissants—no waste here!

Ingredients Overview for Easy Croissant Bread Pudding

Before we dive in, let’s chat about what you’ll need to create this deliciousness. Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients:

Stale croissants: The star of the show! If you have some old croissants lying around, they’re perfect for this recipe.
Large eggs: These provide the structure and richness to the custard.
Whole milk (or almond/soy milk): Adds creaminess. You can totally use your favorite plant-based milk here!
Brown sugar (or granulated sugar): Sweetens the pudding. Brown sugar gives it a deeper flavor, but granulated works too.
Vanilla extract: Adds that lovely warm flavor that makes everything better.
Cinnamon: A warm, comforting spice that’s essential for that cozy feel.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all those flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this delightful easy croissant bread pudding:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking.
Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures your pudding doesn’t stick.
Cut croissants into 1-inch cubes. You want to make sure they’re bite-sized to soak up all that custard.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Whisk until fluffy and perfectly blended.
Pour the custard mixture over the croissant cubes and gently stir to coat, letting it sit for 10-15 minutes. This allows the croissants to really soak up that yummy mixture.
Spread the mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Make sure everything is well distributed.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this step!
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. This is the hardest part; that delicious aroma will be tempting you.

Serving Suggestions

Once your easy croissant bread pudding has cooled a bit, slice it up, serve it warm, and enjoy! It’s delightful on its own, but why not top it with a little whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra treat? You could also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top to make it look extra pretty. Trust me, your friends and family will be so impressed!

Tips For The Perfect Easy Croissant Bread Pudding

Use day-old croissants: They absorb the custard better than fresh ones.
Experiment with flavor: Add some chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flavor.
Let it soak: The longer you let the croissants soak, the more flavorful your pudding will be.
Check for doneness: Every oven is different, so keep an eye out for that golden top.

Q&A Section

1. Can I make this the night before?
Absolutely! Prepare everything and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready.

2. Can I use other types of bread?
Yes! This recipe works with bagels or brioche too. Just make sure it’s a bit stale for the best results.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, let it cool, then wrap it tightly. It can be frozen for a month. Just reheat in the oven!

4. Is it gluten-free?
Unfortunately, this version isn’t gluten-free. You can use gluten-free bread if needed.

Why You’ll Love It

You’re going to fall head over heels for this easy croissant bread pudding! Each bite is a lovely balance of creamy, sweet, and slightly spiced deliciousness. Plus, it’s a great way to use what you have at home without wasting anything. Whether you’re sharing it with a group or enjoying a quiet evening treat, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your dessert lineup!

The Journey of Making Easy Croissant Bread Pudding

When I first tried developing this easy croissant bread pudding, things didn’t go quite as planned. I accidentally overbaked my first attempt, and instead of a soft custard, I ended up with something resembling concrete. The second try? A bit too sweet—oops! But this third time, I finally got it! The combination of vanilla and warm cinnamon filled my kitchen with the most comforting aroma, and I knew I was onto something good. It’s been a hit in my home ever since!

{image_template}